ECONOMIC development chiefs on South Tyneside are using the latest technology to attract more job-creating companies from all over the world.

A CD-Rom now guides viewers on a virtual tour of what the borough has to offer in terms of business accommodation and support.

It also highlights the housing, tourism, leisure and education facilities in South Tyneside.

The CD-Rom was put together by the Marketing and Job Linkages Project, set up within South Tyneside Enterprise Partnership (Step), in conjunction with One NorthEast.

It promotes opportunities for business development and job chances for local people.

The CD-rom was launched by Councillor Jim Harper, lead member for regeneration with South Tyneside council, at an event held at Tedco Business Works, in South Shields.

Coun Harper said: "The CD-Rom incorporates both business and lifestyle information to give an overall view of South Tyneside as a good place to work, live and play.

"In addition to the existing successful business community there are also many new opportunities for business development in South Tyneside.

"Westoe Colliery urban village will revitalise that area, incorporating small businesses alongside new homes.

"New industrial and office units will become available at Monkton Business Park later this year and nine new units are under construction at the Boldon Business Park.

"Also Viking Industrial Park, in Jarrow, will continue to benefit from Enterprise Zone Status until 2006.

"In South Shields, Tedco Business Works is a great success and planning permission has been secured for modern office development at Harton Quay. Judging by the pace of development it is fair to say that South Tyneside is rising from the ashes and the new CD-Rom will help sell the borough to inward investors."

The CD-Rom is being sent to development agencies nationwide and worldwide, as well as to major companies in the region.

Copies are available from job linkage officer Shona Duncan, at South Tyneside council's economic development team, on 0191-427 1717.