THE Government yesterday published the region's planning blueprint for the next 14 years.

Regional Planning Guidance for the North-East will provide a framework for planners, business leaders and politicians.

Some of the priorities in the document include creating job opportunities and supporting communities in the former coalfield areas, supporting rural regeneration and revitalising the region's towns and city centres.

The regional planning body, the North East Assembly, will work with local authorities and other partners to deliver the strategy.

It includes directing the majority of development to built-up parts of the Tyne and Wear and Tees areas and creating 65 per cent of new housing on previously developed brownfield sites.

Councillor Tony Flynn, chairman of the North East Assembly, said: "It will provide clear guidance and certainty into how the region will develop and provides the framework to move the region towards an integrated, joined-up approach."

A spokesman for the regional development agency One NorthEast welcomed the plan.

He said: "It is important to the region in that it sets out long term land usage and sustainable regeneration over the next 15 years.

"The issues raised within the guidance affect the quality of life for everyone within the North-East and are key to achieving a renaissance of our Region.

"Providing job opportunities, creating a sustainable transport system for our towns and cities and breathing new life into city centres are all issues which impact upon the lives of people in the North-East."