A MULTI-MILLION pound bid is being drawn up to improve the use of public transport in Hartlepool.

The major improvement scheme depends on the success of a £12m bid to the Government to integrate transport such as taxis, railways and pedestrians, improve road safety, protect the environment and boost the town's economy.

The five-year plan includes realignment of the Hart Lane/Raby Road junction, the rebuilding of the main shopping street York Road and a scheme to adapt bus stops to include low-floor buses.

In following years there are also ambitious plans to link train, pedestrians and bus users with the town centre.

The local transport plan has to be lodged with the Government Office of the North East by the end of July. A response to the council's spending plans will be known by December.