SOCIAL facilities on a university campus will be transformed in a £500,000 investment programme designed to give students a better educational experience.

Durham University is providing new facilities at its Queen's Campus, in Stockton, for more than 2,000 students, including a new stage for live performances, cafe, bar and internet office.

The facilities will enhance the university's plans for the college, following its commitment to develop the Stockton North Shore as part of the area's regeneration.

Recently-installed pro-vice-chancellor Professor Ray Hudson will lead the development.

He said the £500,000 package included the creation of social space at Queen's John Snow and Stephenson colleges, and the revamping of its Waterside suite.

John Snow and Stephenson colleges will get £75,000 each to create a social hub to reflect the sense of community in the college.

Private office space, an internet cafe, a juice and coffee bar and TV lounges are also included in proposals.

Work has begun and the facilities should be ready for the next month's intake of students.

The university will also spend £350,000 revamping its Waterside suite in the campus' Holliday Building to provide extra facilities for staff and students.

Work on that project will be completed early next year.

Vice-chancellor Professor Christopher Higgins, who was a student at the university in the 1970s, said: "Providing stimulating, welcoming and vibrant space and facilities for our students is at the heart of this investment.

"We're committed to working together to develop new facilities that will meet their needs and their vision for a campus, which not only delivers a world-class learning and research environment, but a highly-valued pastoral, emotional and social experience too."

Joe Docherty, chief executive of Tees Valley Regeneration, said: "Durham University has demonstrated in recent months its intentions to expand its business in the Tees Valley.

"This investment, which will significantly enhance the student experience at Queen's Campus, is another welcome example of the University's growing commitment to the campus and the Tees Valley."

In July, Durham University announced its intention to expand its Queen's Campus, in Stockton, across the river from the North Shore site, by buying an option on four acres of land.