PLANS to bring a key development site in Middlesbrough into use have taken a step forward with appointment of a team of consultants to prepare a feasibility study and master plan.

White Young Green started work on the project for the 46-hectare site of Hemlington Grange, in the south of the town, with a brief to provide high quality employment facilities.

The consultants are preparing options based on a mix of employment, community and residential uses for the site.

Middlesbrough Council's head of planning and regeneration, Kevin Parkes, said: "This is an important step forward in bringing this site into use and attracting new jobs in Middlesbrough.

"The consultants will be preparing a master plan, but before that is finalised, we will be discussing all the options with local residents and groups.

"Their input will be vital in shaping these plans and helping us reach a good quality, sustainable development."

Councillor David Budd, executive member for regeneration, said: "This site has the potential to be a big asset for south Middlesbrough and the whole town. I am very pleased to see we are making progress on it.

"I am looking forward to discussing the options with local people and getting their input into the final plans for jobs and regeneration."