OFFICIALS will look again at controversial plans to build a road on an embankment past an estate.

People living on the St Aidan's Estate, in Grangetown, Sunderland, have objected to the elevated section of the southern radial route planned by Sunderland City Council.

They say it will blight the area and block their views of the sea, and that they have the support of Sunderland South MP Chris Mullin and the Council for the Protectionof Rural England.

Councillor Ian Galbraith, the council cabinet member for transport, said: "I've asked officers to review the proposals and do their level best to come up with a solution which answers some of the objections.

"This is a genuine effort to address the worries of local residents. It proves that we're listening to the people and this has been a real grassroots consultation.''

However, he said that there might not be a feasible alternative to the proposals.

Philip Barrett, the council's director of development and regeneration, said: "An option we're looking at is to lower the northern section of the road so it passes under the port rail line in a cutting.

"There are still problems to overcome, both technical and financial. If we can overcome them then we can come some way towards meeting the wishes of the residents.

"This road is absolutely vital to improving the local environment and to the regeneration of the port and east side of Sunderland, as well as to the economy of the city as a whole.

"We are very keen to reach a satisfactory outcome.''

The planning application for the road was due to be considered by councillors on Wednesday but officers are now recommending that it be deferred.

Further consultation will be held if another scheme is drawn up. If no other option can be found, the existing proposals will go back to councillors in due course.