South Tyneside Council has secured £80,000 from the Department of Transport to introduce 20mph zones.

It is hoped that the zones, in and around residential areas, will reduce accidents and improve the environment.

Local schools will be invited to work with the council's road safety team to help design new traffic signs for each area and promote road safety issues.

Residents, the emergency services and public transport operators have been sent letters requesting their views.

Plans showing the proposed zones are on view at the Town Hall and at Landreth House in South Shields.

Cllr Michael Clare, lead member of neighbourhood services said: "We want to engage the local community in this process as much as possible."

Following public agreement the zones will be implemented around Whiteleas Estate, Harton, Biddick Hall, Horsley Hill, Fulwell Avenue and Harton.