From now on, all new blocks of flats in Sunderland more than five-storeys high will be built without lifts in a bid to reduce the city's bulging waistlines.

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Developers will be encouraged to build staircases on the outside of all new tower blocks. Health chiefs hope the prospect of stunning views across the city will encourage people to take the stairs.

A similar staircase is planned for the 320-foot Spirit of Sunderland tower due to be built as part of the regeneration of the "Holmeside Triangle".

And old tower blocks such as Solar House in the city centre could have the stairs added externally in a massive multimillion project.

But for those who tremble at the thought of all those steps, there will be gently sloping ramps inside, which will also feature ski-style drag lifts for wheelchair users.

Sunderland has been chosen by the Department for Health and Efficiency to be the first city in the UK to pilot a policy which has had a major impact across the Atlantic.

The idea of developing public buildings without lifts was pioneered in California at the instigation of the Angeles Prefecture Research Institute for Living, Fitness, Occupational-health, Orthodontistry and Liposuction.

Spokesman Professer Sue Donnim said the measure had been a spectacular success, particularly when coupled with the introduction of a state-wide ban on building of new doughnut shops less than 500ft above sea level.

"This is good news for the public and good news for business," she said.

"As well as saving on the cost of installing elevators, firms have also cut back the amount they spend on reinforced furniture and fixtures and fittings.

"Door widths on new buildings have come down by an average of six inches since the stairs-only rule was introduced and public transport use has doubled because people now only require one seat each."

Professor Rolf Piola lost 12 stones after enrolling at the stairs-only Federal Academy for Karmic Efficiency.

"I used to get out of breath climbing into bed," he said.

"But three years of climbing 15 storeys to take lessons twice a day really whipped me into shape."

The change to policy will be discussed by planning bosses today, Tuesday, April 1.

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