THE success of a multi-million pound bid has allowed a major breakthrough for transport in the region.

Nearly £27m from the Government will be spent on modernising road systems and easing traffic congestion.

The cash will allow two park and ride systems to operate in the Scarborough area, which will relieve traffic congestion in the town centre.

One system will operate from the A64, Seamer Road, taking buses into the town and surrounding areas. The site, which will provide parking for 700 cars, is the most important of the improvements, according to Councillor Godfrey Allanson, cabinet member for environment and transport on Scarborough Borough Council.

A computer system to coordinate traffic lights is also part of the scheme. It will allow more cars to pass through in one direction at peak times and speed up traffic flow.

Plans also include a bypass between Lebberston and Filey Road, and a smaller park and ride system for the A165.

Scarborough council and North Yorkshire County Council have been working together on the scheme since the late 1990s.

The improvements are to be completed within five years.

Coun Allanson said: "It's a great Christmas present for Scarborough and a major breakthrough for transport in the area.

"It's a great step forward and a reward for our perseverance in building and introducing an integrated transport scheme."