A MAJOR shopping area and bypass are part of a plan to provide Pickering with new jobs and investment.

The proposals are due to be unveiled this week as part of the market town's 2020 Vision.

The 60,000sq ft retail area is earmarked for the south side of the A171 in the coalyard area and could include a new supermarket. There would also be shop and business units.

Also included in the blue-print is a new relief road in the area of Recreation Road, from which there would be access into the retail area.

The plan has been drawn up by a team of business and civic leaders in association with development agency Yorkshire Forward, Ryedale District Council, North Yorkshire County Council, and the National Park Authority, said Debbie Aubrook, the leader of the team.

"We want people to turn out in force to see the plans and express their opinions on them," she said.

One aim is to build a new identity for the town and, at the same time, provide jobs for Pickering's young generation which, said Ms Aubrook, would boost its economy.

Ryedale MP John Greenway is expected to attend the official launch and presentation of 2020 Vision before an invited audience at the Memorial Hall, Pickering, at noon on Thursday. It will be open to the public from 2pm to 8pm.