PLANS for a multi-million development set to change the face of a former east Durham mining community were unveiled yesterday.

Villagers in Murton were given the chance to view plans for the £40m venture which includes a mix of residential and business units.

Details of the "network village'' development went on display in Murton's Glebe Centre and will stay for the next three weeks.

Network villages have been created in line with the Government's aim of building sustainable communities by bringing together businesses and homes in one area.

After the public exhibition and consultation period, the plans will be submitted to Easington District Council.

If approved, the network village will see 180 new houses, a business centre, and work units built using modern, eco-friendly designs.

The project has been developed by Easington council, English Partnerships and venture company Network Space.

Councillor Rob Crute, Easington council's executive member for regeneration, is inviting as many local people as possible to visit the exhibition.

He said: "With the potential to create hundreds of new jobs, if given the go-ahead, the network village will provide a boost to our economy.

"I would urge people to take the opportunity to look over the plans and find out about what could be a major development for the village.''

Simon Peters, regional director of Network Space, said: "The regeneration of the former colliery site is a key proposal to the continued regeneration of Murton.

"As well as ensuring the highest level of sustainability, the scheme will boost the local economy, provide a better choice of housing and deliver new areas of public open space for community use.''