MULTI-MILLION pound plans to redevelop Sedgefield Racecourse have been revealed by owners Northern Racing Limited.

Northern Racing, which took over the County Durham racecourse two years ago, wants to build an all-weather artificial racing surface in addition to the current National Hunt turf course.

An application, one of 18 from around the country, has been lodged with the British Horseracing Board, which will approve four bids.

Northern Racing is in talks with Sedgefield District Council and expects to lodge a planning application in two months.

If all goes to plan, the £4m development could be ready by summer next year.

The surface of the turf course would also be improved and grandstands upgraded.

Simon Clarke, Northern Racing's deputy chairman, said: "These are hugely exciting plans. They're great news for the North-East and a large investment in the region's economy.

"Full-time and part-time jobs would be created and local businesses would enjoy lots of spin-off benefits, with increasing numbers of people visiting Sedgefield."

He added: "There is no question of threatening jump racing at Sedgefield, quite the reverse."

Racehorse trainers and owners have been calling for an all-weather racetrack in the North for years.

At present, there are only three - at Southwell and Wolverhampton, in the Midlands, and Lingfield Park, in Surrey.

Rod Street, Northern Racing's group managing director, said: "These proposals would lead to the creation of a superb horse racing venue of which the whole of the North of England could be proud.

"There will be investment in stables, as well as improved facilities for owners and trainers, so everyone in the racing community will benefit."

The next part of the selection process for the 18 bids is expected to take a month.