PLANS for the development of the Hemlington Grange area in Middlesbrough have reached a crucial stage with the council looking to spend up to £40,000 to finish the master plan.

Consultants White Young Green have been working to deliver a sustainable mixed use scheme for the area that would boost employment and housing prospects.

Public consultation on the idea, completed at the end of last month, will determine the preferred option of the plan.

Any agreed proposal would impact on the communities of Hemlington, Coulby Newham and Stainton and Thornton.

The council's regeneration team is keen for the consultants to continue with the job by asking members to waive standing orders and grant permission for White Young Green to complete the task.

The original funding for the consultation was provided through the One NorthEast Single Programme fund.

The council is expected to agree the additional consultation work at a meeting early next week.