THE go-ahead for a revolutionary new transport system, which could link Teesside with Darlington, will be given this summer, The Northern Echo can reveal.

Regional development agency OneNorth-East hopes the plans will be a reality by 2010.

Experts have spent months pouring over the plans. They looked at three schemes - trams, a Metro system or special buses that can run on rails.

The Northern Echo understands that the buses plan has now been rejected, at least for now.

A final decision on whether to go with trams - similar to those already running in Manchester and Sheffield - or a Metro is due to be announced in June.

Andy Hyams, director of transportation on the Tees Valley Partnership, said experts had narrowed their options down after the public expressed disdain about travelling by bus.

Mr Hyams said: "A lot of people who were questioned for the study just didn't want to get on a bus.

"The reason this was being considered was that these buses can run on rails and then come off the rails to go to all the estates. It was a good option.

"But now we will be deciding between light rail and heavy rail systems - ie trams or a Metro system similar to the one on Tyneside."

But he stressed the buses-on-rails option could still be considered if the other two proved to be too expensive.

If the Metro is chosen, it will connect Darlington with Teesside, providing a vastly improved service to the existing rail link.

But trams would initially only run in Stockton and Middlesbrough, and would possibly be extended to Darlington at a later stage.

Mr Hyams said: "Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the main disadvantage with the heavy rail is cost."

The aim of the scheme is to link towns to existing and potential employment, education establishments and health and leisure facilities.

And it is hoped more people will leave their cars at home and use the high-frequency transport.

Experts are expected to complete the report by the beginning of June, when they will choose one option and the routes it will take.

The report follows a study commissioned by OneNorth-East, English Partnerships and the Tees Valley local authorities last year.

This concluded that a rapid transit system would solve problems with social exclusion, improve the environment and boost economic regeneration in Darlington and Teesside.