TRANSPORT problems facing Hartlepool and proposed solutions are to be discussed at a series of public meetings this week.

The forums are part of an ongoing process to develop the town's second local transport plan (LTP).

There will be a public question time at each meeting when residents will be able to raise matters of interest or concern.

Ian Jopling, the council's transportation team leader, will speak at the north, central and south neighbourhood consultative forums.

Mr Jopling said: "The meetings give local people a chance to comment on proposed schemes that are currently being considered for inclusion in the LTP."

A provisional plan was sent to the Government last year, and the finalised plan will be submitted in March.

It sets out proposed improvements to tackle local transport problems during the period 2006 to 2011.

The north forum will be at West View Community Centre, Miers Avenue, tomorrow, at 10am.

For the central area, the meeting is in committee room B at the Civic Centre, on Thursday, at 10am.

The south forum will be at Owton Manor Community Centre, Wynyard Road, on Friday, at 10am.