RESIDENTS in Middlesbrough support a green transport system - as long as it is only implemented at rush-hour times.

A Middlesbrough Borough Council survey of the citizens' panel revealed that 70 per cent of people agree with a policy of giving greater priority to buses, cycles and pedestrians.

But 65 per cent said it should only be operated at busy times and bus lanes should be kept clear of cars.

The survey also showed that residents find it hard to get into the town centre by car, while bus passengers have difficulty getting to South Cleveland Hospital because of restricted timetables.

However, the bus station was rated as a good facility, while the training of taxi drivers was rated unsatisfactory.

The panel is made up of 1,215 residents who have agreed to respond to regular surveys.

Members come from all walks of life and represent a cross-section of the town.

The responses are examined by the council, which uses them to develop future policies.