DURHAM County Council's headquarters could be the venue for citizenship ceremonies for immigrants.

From next month, foreigners applying for British nationality will have to make an obligatory oath and pledge at a ceremony held by a superintendent registrar.

The first ceremonies are likely to take place in the London Borough of Brent during February and the first in County Durham are not expected until at least the middle of the year.

The county council said that about 200 people seeking citizenship settle in the county each year and that ceremonies will probably need to be held every two or three months.

The standard ceremony the Government wants to hold includes an address by a local dignitary, taking of the oath and pledge, presentation of graduation-style certificates and signing of local registers, possibly the presentation of a local gift and celebration with light refreshments.

A report by county council corporate services director Andrew North to Thursday's cabinet said the Union Flag and National Anthem would also feature in the ceremonies.

"Although the ceremony must be undertaken by a superintendent registrar, the Government sees the ceremony as an important opportunity for the local community to formally welcome their new citizens and prominent members of the local community should be involved, eg mayors, leaders or chairman of local councils.''

Mr North said that the council's registration offices do not meet the Disability Discrimination Act, lack adequate toilets and have no rooms for serving food.

"The use of facilities within County Hall may prove to be the most suitable and viable venue," he said.

The cabinet will be recommended to consult groups such as The Racial Equality Council on its proposals for ceremonies.