PLANS for a hotel and restaurant on the site of a former steelworks have been revealed.

An outline planning application has been submitted with details of the proposed £2.2m development, which would create more than 50 jobs.

A 24-room hotel and 150-seat restaurant - likely to feature Italian food - is being planned for land near Puddlers Corner in Consett, close to Derwentside College and Morrisons supermarket.

The scheme, which is being hailed as part of the ongoing regeneration of the former steelworks site, is expected to create full and part-time jobs for managers, chefs, bar and serving staff, as well as work for local construction companies.

Project Genesis, the body set up to oversee the redevelopment of the former industrial site, is behind the venture and has submitted the application to Derwentside District Council.

Morris Muter, managing director of Project Genesis, said demand from potential restaurateurs and hoteliers had been high, which he took to be a sign of business confidence in Consett.

Mr Muter said: "There is a shortage of hotel accommodation in Consett and the provision of our proposals will go some way to satisfying demand.

"The restaurant is designed to create an attractive feature on Puddlers Corner.

"It is large enough to cater for functions, while its design will create an ambience for couples or small groups of diners."

The restaurant has been designed by Mike Dixon, of Chipchase Associates, based in Gateshead.

Although details have yet to be finalised, the main dining room will be round, made of brick with a copper roof overhanging the walls, which will be supported by brackets to create a special feature.

There will also be parking for 32 vehicles.

Project Genesis was formed when regional property company Dysarts, which created the Newcastle Business Park, teamed up with Derwentside District Council.

It is currently constructing an Innovation Centre at Ponds Court, in Consett, for Derwentside Industrial Development Agency .

Mr Muter said: "The creation of this exciting new hotel and restaurant is yet another piece in the Genesis jigsaw and more will be added in the coming months."

Derwentside planners are expected to consider the applications at their meeting on June 23.