USERS of a successful park and ride service could soon have further value added to their ticket.

Passengers on Durham's park and ride network are likely to be granted free travel on the city's cathedral shuttle bus service.

The extension, subject to formal approval next week, will help develop a comprehensive transport network for the city.

Should it be given the go-ahead by Durham County Council, it is hoped the ticket package will be implemented in time for the peak tourist season.

County council corporate environment director John Richardson said the park and ride scheme, aimed at relieving traffic congestion in Durham and freeing city centre parking spaces, had surpassed all expectations in its first six months.

Motorists can park at one of three edge of city sites and take regular shuttle bus runs into Durham, between 7am and 7pm, Monday to Saturday, for a £1.70 daily charge.

Mr Richardson said almost 250,000 passengers have used the service since it was introduced on December 5 with a substantial increase during the main tourist season forecast.

He said: "These additional visitors, and the positive reputation of the park and ride service, are making a significant contribution to the viability and vitality of the city.

"The logical step to capitalise on its success would be to link it with the cathedral bus shuttle service operating in the city centre."

Fourteen-seater buses operating every 20 minutes travel from the city's coach park, railway and bus stations, ferrying passengers to and from Durham's cathedral and castle, on Palace Green.

County councillors are recommended to approve the extension of park and ride tickets for use on the cathedral shuttle service when they meet on Thursday.