PLANS for one of the North-East's most important business developments have taken a step forward.

A planning application has been submitted to Darlington Borough Council for two office buildings at Morton Palms business park, on the eastern edge of the town

The future of the proposed business park was secured in March by a deal which could create up to 1,000 jobs.

Newcastle firm City & Northern, which is developing the site, has submitted the application.

The two buildings, totalling 70,000 sq ft, will feature aluminum framed glazing and red brick with a butterfly-type roof over the third floor.

Elliott A Ward, managing director of City & Northern, said: "We are seeking to provide an excellent development which sets the standard for new office development in Darlington and its surroundings. It promises to serve as a future landmark for Darlington and inward investment."

The business park is a partnership project between Darlington council and regional development agency One NorthEast.

A total of £1.5m has already been spent to complete the road network and site services.

When developed, the park will provide 28,000 square metres of business accommodation with the potential to attract more than £17m of private sector investment.

Councillor John Williams, the leader of Darlington council, said: "The business park will attract inward investment and create real job opportunities for local people.

"We will be working with the developers and with One NorthEast to create a quality business park that is an asset to Darlington and the North-East."

If given the go-ahead by councillors, building is expected to begin on the site later this year.