BLACKPOOL illuminations with a difference are being proposed for an industrial heartland.

It is hoped that multi-coloured laser beams projecting images and colours on to the otherwise austere factory and plant walls will not only bring visitors into parts of Teesside, but also new businesses and jobs.

Testing of a "light illumination and projection strategy'' is proposed for major approach roads into east Cleveland at a cost of £50,000.

If there is a good response to the tests a rolling programme could follow.

A report to Redcar and Cleveland borough councillors says: "The aim of the strategy is to enhance the image and perception of the area, by demonstrating its character through an exciting lighting and image/light projection scheme.

"Project objectives are to build on the unique night time characteristics of the borough, which include the dramatic architecture associated with the chemical and steel industries, and the juxtaposition of the striking coastline and countryside.''

Firms are to be approached for sponsorship Testing could start at the end of next month and run until February.

Council chairman Councillor Dave Walsh said: "A lot of the approaches into our borough are by big industrial buildings.

"We are saying, in their own way, they have a degree of stark beauty and what we are looking at is the possibility of using some kind of laser lighting to enhance a journey through industrial sites, making it more visually attractive.

"I think it would be of benefit to local people to make a journey through industrial sites more visually attractive.''

Money has been provided by One NorthEast.