A DEPARTMENT store window display will mark the end of a controversial traffic experiment and the start of consultations on whether it should be retained.

In the next few days, British Home Stores, in Middlesbrough, will give over one of its main windows to a plan of the town centre.

It aims to remind people of the changes that have taken place over the past 30 years, and draw their attention to the six-month experiment banning buses from Newport Road and Corporation Road, which ends tomorrow.

The ban caused controversy among bus users and traders, who were even less happy when bus company Arriva withdrew several services from the bus station.

The display heralds the start of the most extensive public consultation programme ever undertaken in Middlesbrough.

A market research company will ask all town centre users their views, and there will be a series of public meetings and individual consultations with key groups, such as traders and bus companies.

For those requiring it, a technical assessment of the scheme will be made available.

John Foster, chief executive of Middlesbrough Borough Council, said the aim is to generate informed debate.

He said: "Our aim is to ensure that the consultation provides a genuine opportunity for individuals and groups to express their views.

"As part of the process, we are prepared to send a representative to meetings called by any special interest group to answer questions and take their views on board."

A final decision on the town centre's future is expected to be taken in June.