THE vision of a £300m development that could bring 2,500 new jobs to Stockton was unveiled this week.

Tees Valley Regeneration revealed plans for the North Shore project which will transform 56 acres along the banks of the Tees between Stockton and Middlesbrough.

TVR expects to see hundreds of riverside homes, offices, leisure facilities and a new hotel.

It is also hoped a major expansion of Durham University's Stockton campus will form a key part of the plan.

The massive development was launched on Wednesday and the search for a private sector partner is now on to turn the vision into reality.

TVR chief executive Joe Docherty said: "North Shore is a fantastic opportunity and one we believe the major developers will wish to grasp with both hands.

"It is a great location with a host of natural advantages and a master plan of which we are truly proud.

"World class is too frequently an over-used expression, but in this instance its use is totally justified.

"This is a scheme that will not only raise the bar in terms of design and quality, but one that will also increase both commercial interest and values."

Durham University is keen to develop a large piece of the site opposite its current home on Thornaby's Teesdale site.

It is hoped this will include residential and conference facilities and a new academic research centre.

Although a contract has yet to be signed, TVR is hopeful the development will take place.

Sites on either side of the river would be linked by an eye-catching pedestrian and cycle bridge.

From today, North Shore is being advertised in national property media and expressions of interest from some of the leading national and international developers are anticipated.

A final partner will be selected in July this year, with work due to start in 2006.

Coun Bob Gibson, leader of Stockton Council, gave the scheme his full backing.