PLANS to unlock the full potential of the once run-down and derelict banks of the River Tees were unveiled in a new strategy yesterday.

And if they become a reality the scheme could make Stockton one of the most exciting water sports destinations in the world.

The ambitious Tees Navigation Strategy has been drawn up by Stockton Borough Council, One NorthEast, English Partnerships and British Waterways.

It aims to pinpoint sites for sustainable development along the river, from the Tees Barrage to Low Worsall.

Among the recommendations are:

Plans for a 45,000-seater sports arena

Investment to create an international water sports venue

Most ambitious of all, a scheme to redevelop the town centre so it faces the river.

It is also hoped to develop angling opportunities further up the river at Preston Park and Yarm.

A cultural corner is already beginning to take shape around the Green Dragon Yard in Stockton and the strategy reveals plans to develop this.

Patrick Thornber, from British Waterways, said: "The potential of the Tees has been under-realised and we want to change that. It is an underplayed attraction."

The river has already undergone a transformation as a result of the £54m barrage project, completed in 1993 and a winner of several design awards.

In recent years, it has staged several water sports championships. Last year, the British jetski championship was fought out upstream and the Princess Royal attended the world canoeing marathon championship.

For the strategy's recommendations and plans to be carried out a wide range of funding packages are needed, and the partnership will look to the Government and other sectors for help.

No final figure has been put on the proposals, although it is expected to be a multi-million pound investment.

Mr Thornber said: "When I talk to people in the South and mention Stockton and the River Tees they all just remember it how it was before - run-down and derelict.

"That image is changing and we want to build on that. This strategy is not pie-in-the sky. It can be achieved.

"Once before, people might have thought it laughable that the area could become a tourist attraction, but it can.

"We want to attract people here to visit the river, have a go at watersports, visit the towns, stay in the hotels and hopefully spend money in the area."

It is hoped that the strategy will now prompt further ideas from the community and local businesses as to what they want to see along the river.