TRAFFIC calming measures in Stockton have led to the lowest casualty figures on record, council officials have revealed.

Statistics for 2007 show a fall of almost a fifth on the previous year.

Stockton Borough Council said it invests large amounts of money every year in measures designed to make the borough safer for all road-users.

Last year, this included a series of new speed calming measures, pedestrian crossings and speed warning signs.

In addition, the council has invested heavily in education and training for all road-users.

All primary schools in the borough engage in pedestrian and cycle training provided by the council to help youngsters understand the dangers of using the roads from an early age.

Last year, the total number of casualties for the borough fell by 112 to 482, a reduction of 19 per cent.

The number of people killed or seriously injured in road accidents also fell by 21 per cent, while the number of serious accidents involving children fell by 43 per cent. Slight injuries were also reduced by 18 per cent.

Council officers say a number of new schemes have had a major impact on reducing the figures.

These include speed calming measures in Oxbridge Lane, Stockton, reducing the speed limit on the A177 at Thorpe Larches and creating a pedestrian crossing at Junction Road, Norton.

Coun Bob Cook, cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said: "These figures are great news for the people of the borough and show the hard work and dedication of council staff, the police and volunteers in making our roads safer for all users."

The council has several schemes planned to help reduce these figures further, including signal improvements in Bishopton Road West, reducing the speed limit on Durham Back Lane and converting a pelican crossing to a puffin crossing on the A139 Norton Road.

In addition, the council will continue to work closely with neighbouring authorities and Cleveland Police on a range of measures to try to reduce accidents by educating drivers about safer driving behaviour.