PLANS for speed humps in an east Durham road could win approval despite objections from some of the residents.

Durham County Council is proposing the traffic measure in Haverley Drive, Seaton, near Seaham, to curb drivers' speeds.

But 12 of the 106 people consulted about the idea object.

A report by Chris Tunstall, the council's director of environment and technical services, to today's highways committee meeting says: "Eight of the objectors regard speed humps as an unnecessary expense with suggestions that the humps would cause excessive noise and be a challenge to bad drivers or skateboards."

One felt the humps should be closer together and several supported the idea but were concerned about access to driveways. Mr Tunstall says another concern for ten residents is the effect of humps on vehicles negotiating the steep section at the southern end in winter conditions.

"Further suggestions made were that the funding would be better spent on improving the road surface, providing an alternative access at the southern end or a mini-roundabout at the junction on to the main road.''

Officials offered to remove the humps on the steep section but the objectors maintained their opposition.

Councillors will be recommended to approve a reduced scheme for the road.