A host of east Cleveland landmarks could soon be illuminated to improve the area's image.

Gisborough Priory, Saltburn Pier and the Redcar Clock are among the sites that may be floodlit.

Residents' views about the plan to improve the area's image with lighting have already been taken into consideration by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

Peter Ellis, council assistant director for regeneration services, said: "Redcar and Cleveland council is blessed with a lot of interesting buildings but they are often overlooked.

"Careful floodlighting can improve the ambience and appearance of buildings and we are also looking at using it to improve community safety.

"We had a mixed response from the public, but overall it was quite favourable.

"As a consequence of the consultation period we are recommending that emphasis be put on illuminating regeneration projects and historical buildings."

A full list of buildings to be included in the scheme will be drawn up if it is approved.

The list could contain industrial buildings as well as tourist sites.

The project aims to improve community pride, bring more tourists to the area and increase investment.

But leader of the Labour opposition, Councillor George Dunning, believes the money could be spent better elsewhere.

He said: "I'm sure there are much more worthwhile things that the money could be spent on such as preventing anti-social behaviour, or preventing flooding in Eston but it's difficult because the way pots of money are allocated.

"If the council said it wanted to move the money elsewhere, it probably would not get any at all.

"But I am concerned that rather than act as a crime deterrent, the floodlighting might encourage it."

It is hoped that the Lighting and Illumination Strategy will be funded by the Tees Valley Action Plan Funds which are available towards the end of next year.

However, Heritage Lottery Funds may be obtained to cover preparatory costs.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's cabinet will consider the recommendations at its meeting tomorrow.