THE number of vehicles using Stockton High Street could drop dramatically if plans for a traffic scheme are agreed.

The council cabinet yesterday considered an 18-month trial for the town's main thoroughfare, following public consultation earlier this year.

If the report is accepted, vehicle access would be cut from July to create a safer, calmer environment for pedestrians.

The plan, devised jointly by council engineers, police and the town centre manager, is to allow buses and cyclists to use the central section of the High Street between the two bus turning loops between 9.30 and 4.30 every day. Taxis would be allowed in the loops, along with vehicles needing access.

Existing access permits and arrangements would be withdrawn and the junctions of the High Street with Ramsgate and Silver Street closed.

Apart from the southbound bus and cycle lane, all restrictions would be lifted each day between 4.30pm and 9.30am.

Assistant engineering and transport director, Mike Robinson, said: "Many people have backed plans to reduce traffic. Where there were concerns, such as traders needing access, we have looked at ways of addressing these."