FERRYHILL residents are determined to make the town's roads safer for pedestrians and motorists.

The Ferryhill Road Safety Forum has produced a list of schemes it wants Durham County Council to consider.

A number of traffic blackspots have been identified, and three suggestions for major improvement schemes proposed.

Top of the list is tackling the problem of speeding traffic outside the Eldon pub, at Ferryhill Station.

Forum secretary Jamie Corrigan said: "Cars come flying down Mainsforth Bank, which makes crossing the road almost impossible to do safely.

"You can't see the oncoming traffic, and it is on top of you before you know it - it is very dangerous."

The forum has suggested the council install a roundabout or traffic lights to slow down traffic.

Another request is for Westcott Terrace to be widened, and double yellow lines to be placed alongside Dean Bank Primary School to make it safer for children.

The third request is to remove the block paving area outside the Natwest bank in the town centre.

The forum wants to extend parking bays in front of the shops and impose a 20-minute waiting time to stop parking congestion near the cash point.

Half a dozen smaller schemes have been suggested, including stopping motorists turning right on to the A167 from Darlington Road, and reducing traffic speed and congestion on Merrington Road.

Mr Corrigan said: "We had a very good meeting, with a lot of people there.

"Anybody can come and talk at these meetings, and all will have full voting rights, whether it's Joe Public or a member of a group or organisation."

A spokeswoman for Durham County Council said: "It is always good to see local people taking an interest in their area, and we will welcome any comments from the group.

"These requests will, hopefully, be dealt with through the county council's newly set up member area panel."

The forum is hoping some of the recommended improvements will have taken place before its next meeting, in May.

Anyone who wants to be notified personally of the date of the next meeting can contact Ferryhill Town Hall and an agenda will be sent out