HOLIDAY cabins and an 18-hole golf course could transform one of the region's best-known landscapes.

Proposals for the development - in the shadow of the Newton Cap Viaduct, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham - go before planners next week.

Former Newcastle United and Hartlepool footballer Allan Barker's company Castle Golf is behind the scheme, which aims to create jobs and draw visitors to the town.

The course was part of a long-term strategy envisaged when, in August 2003, he opened a driving range with his brother Joe and ex-Darlington player Lee Ellison.

Based at Flatts Farm and with a spectacular view of the viaduct as well as the Bishop of Durham's palace, Auckland Castle, the centre was named Eleven Arches in tribute to the famous old landmark.

The site would have the River Wear on three sides.

Farm buildings would be converted into a function room, bar, games room, shop and kitchen.

Because it is close to Binchester Roman Fort, an archaeological survey would have to carried out before work could start.

Wear Valley District Council's development control committee will vote on the scheme on Thursday.

Mr Barker plans to run the course on a pay-to-play basis and not as a members' club.

He said: "I want it to be as accessible as possible. It will be somewhere people can just turn up and play, making it easy for visitors and local people to use.

"There is a market for people who can't afford to join a club but just want to play golf.

"If I get permission, I can be ready to start straight away and have nine holes open within two years and follow straight on with the rest.

"A development like this can only be good for the regeneration of Bishop Auckland and the whole area."

Planners are advising approval subject to conditions relating to materials, traffic and site investigations.

The chalets and clubhouse could not be used until the nine-hole course is ready.