WEARSIDE residents have made suggestions on solving transport problems as part of a consultation exercise.

Last month, 1,800 residents of Hetton-le-Hole, East Rainton, Low Moorsley, Easington Lane and Houghton-le-Spring were asked their views on getting around.

Groups representing the visually and hearing impaired, and mothers and toddlers, made suggestions including creating safer, cleaner and better-lit streets and paths to encourage people to walk or cycle.

They also suggested cheaper bus fares, the return of mini-link buses between neighbouring communities; more environmentally friendly transport and more provisions for cyclists, ramblers and horse-riders.

Their views will be published in a report next month and will form part of the Hetton Sustainable Transport Project.

Steve Graham, City of Sunderland sustainability co-ordinator, said: "Over the last month we have been successful in consulting a huge number of local people on an issue which affects everyone - how to get around their area.

"Some of the ideas that people have come up with are excellent.

"This consultation exercise has raised local people's awareness of the environmental and health related benefits of walking, cycling and catching the bus."