PLANS for a £400m development to breathe new life into a town eyesore could be approved next week.

Proposals to develop the north shore along the River Tees, in Stockton, are being recommended for approval by the town’s planning committee.

It would create 4,745 new jobs for the area once the development has been finished.

The Northshore scheme is led by Tees Valley Regeneration, in partnership with national regeneration agency English Partnerships, with urban regeneration specialist Muse Developments and property developer Urban Splash in joint venture as the developers.

The plans call for the scrub and wasteland to be transformed into a focal point where people can live, play and work.

Outline planning permission is sought for a mixed-use development, incorporating waterfront houses and apartments, offices, leisure and retail facilities, including cafes, restaurants, bars and shops, together with hotels, car parking and a car dealership.

It is hoped the scheme will raise Stockton’s profile, while creating substantial employment opportunities and more homes.

The £15m Infinity Bridge, which opened last month, links the cleared former steel works site to the Durham University campus on the other side of the river.

In a report to councillors, the scheme’s partners state: “The development is intended to be an extension of the existing Stockton Town Centre eastwards, creating a link between the town centre and the River Tees.

“The outline application successfully incorporates a varied range of open spaces and landscape features throughout the development.

“There is a strong emphasis on providing a rich mix of green infrastructure running through the development, which will enhance the river setting and areas surrounding the site.”

Although detailed plans have not been submitted, it is believed the site would include up to 999 homes, 350 car parking spaces and one or two three or four-star hotels.

If given the go-ahead, building work on the 23 hectare site, which is situated on the east side of Stockton, is expected to begin later this year, and will take 15 years to complete.

Stockton Borough Council’s planning committee will meet on Wednesday to discuss the plans.