TWO office developments that have brought thousands of jobs to Middlesbrough and Darlington have been shortlisted for a national award.

The North-East's tallest office development, Middlesbrough's Centre North-East, and Darlington's Lingfield Point, have made the shortlist for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors' property management awards, which recognise excellence in commercial property management.

Both sites are owned by the Marchday group. Since 2000, Centre North-East has undergone a £4m refurbishment and almost 70,000sq ft of space has been let in the 18-storey glass-fronted building.

Tenants including Garlands Call Centres and Australian-themed pub Walkabout have been attracted to the site, bringing more than 1,000 jobs to the town centre.

Lingfield Point was built in 1945 by Paton and Baldwins, which merged many of its older factories to create the largest wool-manufacturing site in Europe.

The 1.6 million sq ft site covers 125 acres and now offers office space.

Substantial investment is ongoing to upgrade the complex, which is home to more than 30 businesses and 1,400 employees.

John Orchard, director of Marchday, said: "To have been shortlisted for more awards is real recognition for the regeneration and investment made in both Middlesbrough and Darlington. Both projects have demanded a lot of work but, thanks to a committed team, we are confident that both properties will become two of the most sought-after locations in the North."

Published: 27/04/2004