MAJOR developments are imminent for Bishop Auckland, where a project manager could soon be appointed to help oversee millions of pounds worth of developments.

Plans designed by consultants Red Box would transform the town centre by building shops and homes, improving unsightly buildings, extending and improving car parking, landscaping key areas and freeing up space for leisure or retail development.

The plans were widely welcomed when they went on show more than two years ago, and they will be publicised again over the next few weeks.

The project manager's post was advertised last month, and candidates are being interviewed this week.

Although developments embrace the whole town centre area, including the Market Place, North Bondgate, the bus station and Forebondgate, the first project to be tackled will build on Bishop Auckland's connection with legendary comic Stan Laurel.

Extra money has been made available to transform Theatre Corner, the site of the Eden Theatre once managed by Laurel's father, Arthur Jefferson.

The £200,000 scheme will centre around a bronze statue of the comedian by Tyneside artist Bob Olley, and include improvements to all four corners of the busy Newgate Street crossroads.

Later this year, there will be a paving scheme for narrow Forebondgate, which planners hope will encourage outdoor cafes and high-quality shops.

Developer Helioscity is confident of attracting major retailers to new shop units in North Bondgate, where they are also planning 60 flats and up to 300 car parking spaces.

Wear Valley District Councillors are backing the plans. Labour leader Neil Stonehouse said the high-quality development at North Bondgate would set the tone for the whole scheme.

He said: "It is a tremendously exciting time to be in Bishop Auckland.

"There is so much going on, which will attract new business and create jobs."

Liberal Democrat leader Tommy Taylor said: "It is an excellent project. It will transform Bishop Auckland and make it a town for the 21st Century."