WORK on the £45m Trinity Gardens development on Newcastle Quayside has moved a step closer.

It follows the legal transfer of ownership of the land behind Newcastle law courts from the city council to Silverlink Property Developments.

The event was marked by the signing of a master agreement between Silverlink and Newcastle City Council.

Work is due to start on site in June.

The development comprises a five-storey office block, with ground floor retail space and associated cafes.

There will also be 58 luxury apartments, a multi-storey car park and a hotel.

David Clouston, managing director of Silverlink, said: "The master agreement is the legal transfer of the title of ownership.

"It is the culmination of months of legal and technical discussions between our professional team and the city."

He added: "This is an important project for the city, as well as Silverlink.

"We are working with the best to help deliver a creative and dynamic scheme, which Newcastle can be proud off.

"Hopefully, this project will act to benefit Newcastle's bid for European Capital of Culture status in 2008."

About 2,000 jobs could be created as a result of the development.

Councillor Tony Flynn, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: "This is one of the most prestigious sites awaiting development in the city and our officers have been working closely with the Silverlink team to ensure we all deliver a project that will further enhance our city."