BUSINESSES in Sunderland can find out how they can play a part in shaping the city's growth at a meeting organised by the North East Chamber of Commerce.

Tom Macartney, chief executive of the Sunderland Area Regeneration Committee (arc) will be joining members of the chamber's Tyne and Wear section on Monday at the Quayside Exchange.

The meeting, which begins at 5pm, is free and open to all businesses.

Plans have already been made to develop sites, including the former Vaux Brewery, and the chamber would like businesses to find out how developments affect them and the opportunities that will be created.

Tim James, of the North East Chamber of Commerce Tyne and Wear office, said: "The regeneration of areas like the former Vaux site, Holmeside and the port, will create investment and jobs, and we want to see local businesses at the front of the queue when it comes to pitching for new contracts."