A LANDLORD is hoping to cut congestion in Durham city centre, by encouraging students to carshare.

Student Home Zone has agreed to pay for any of its tenants to become members of the Option C car club.

The club offers shared cars on a "pay-as-you-drive" basis, operating in Durham and Chester-le-Street.

Student Home Zone is one of Durham’s biggest student landlords, running more than 100 properties in the city.

Peter Smith, a partner in the firm, said: "We feel that as landlords we have a social responsibility to improve life in the city.

"A lot of residents who say that they are anti-student aren’t really - they are just anti- things that happen around student houses, such as lots of cars.

"Our arrangement with Option C will eventually be copied and will have a positive effect city wide. I am a member myself and find the service very liberating."

Paul Balmont, from Option C, said: "Option C provides a great way of accessing cars for students in the city, as they typically do not need a car that often during their stay in Durham."

The scheme has the backing of Elvet county councillor David Freeman and North-East MEP Fiona Hall.

Professor Tim Burt, Durham University’s Dean for Environmental Sustainability, said: "This can only please local residents, help our students and ease parking congestion in Durham City.

"We hope that all other landlords will follow suit and adopt similar schemes."