The first stage in a project to improve the look of Stockton's "gateway" roads has finished.

Improvements to Norton Road include work on the Red Lion Roundabout, new litterbins, new railings parallel to Oxford Terrace, and the demolition of three derelict buildings near the Stockton Sports Centre, at a total cost of more than £45,000.

A sponsor is being sought for the Red Lion roundabout.

Work has started on the next stage, a landscaping scheme at Harland Place, next to the Norton High Street junction, which will cost £23,000.

The scheme, which has been sponsored by Devereux Haulage, will include a new seating area, soft landscaping, and a central stone monolith.

Councillor Bob Cook, Stockton Borough Council's cabinet member for regeneration and development, said: "These improvements will spruce up the main routes, making Stockton a more attractive place."

The next gateway to be improved will be the Yarm Road/Yarm Lane route.