2,500 jobs from riverside revamp

The development will change the face of Stockton's riverside

Details have been revealed of an ambitious plan to revamp a former rundown area of Teesside and bring with it more than 2,500 jobs.

The £300m project will change the face of Stockton's North Shore area, with a hi-tech mix of homes, leisure facilities, hotels and offices.

The development will also see a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Tees.

It is one of several planned regeneration projects for Teesside.

Tees Valley Regeneration, is spearheading the project, which also features a new campus for Durham University.

Chief executive Joe Docherty said: "North Shore is a fantastic opportunity and one that we believe the major developers will wish to grasp with both hands.

"It is a great location with a host of natural advantages and a master plan of which we are truly proud."

Public spaces

Leader of Stockton Borough Council Bob Gibson added: "North Shore is central to the future of Stockton and a key component in the expansion and regeneration of the town."

The 56-acre scheme has been designed by award-winning architects Benoy.

Mike MacCormack, design director at Benoy said: "Our master plan is all about getting people down to the water.

"We have designed the site specifically so that people are led to the water and have incorporated public spaces by the river where people can enjoy the river and view the water sports events."

It is estimated the project, which will be partnered by the private sector, will take eight years to complete, with the first phase due to start in 2006.

Some funding for the scheme has been provided by English Partnerships, with £18m already spent on infrastructure and reclamation.