PLANS have been unveiled for a factory that will bring much-needed jobs to the North-East.

Derwentdale Engineering Limited, which trades as Hart Engineering, is proposing a factory near its plant at the Stella Gill Industrial Estate at Pelton Fell, near Chester-le-Street, County Durham.

Planners have recommended Chester-le-Street district councillors grant permission.

A report to councillors says that the factory would enable the company to expand and take on an unspecified number of new employees.

Neighbouring company Allied Exploration and Geotechnics Ltd has raised concerns about the application.

It uses sensitive electronic equipment and is concerned that any surges in demand for electricity, as a result of the new factory, will affect the calibration of the machinery.