AN environment group is launching a campaign for a green belt in the Tees Valley.

The Campaign for the Protection of Rural England, which has groups in Stockton, Middlesbrough and Redcar, says there are enormous tracts of unsightly industrial land and derelict sites throughout Teesside which make the remaining green spaces and open countryside even more precious.

The charity is working to defend the Tees Valley against what it believes is the threat of urban sprawl and is promoting positive alternatives and appropriate development.

Jan Arger, chairman of the Stockton branch, said: "Teesside's greatest asset, the River Tees, is barely recognisable, inaccessible and devalued as it is divided between different authorities and is hidden from view behind derelict industry, uninspiring new generation architecture and car parks."

She added the group believes Teesside is littered with "green wedges" - council designated open spaces, which are intended to maintain the separation of communities within built up areas and improve its appearance.

They contain wildlife habitats and accommodate outdoor sport and recreational uses.

The group is campaigning for a green belt around the conurbation connecting to a green corridor running around the river to ensure town centres and their surrounding areas are properly protected.

CPRE believes a green belt would protect open spaces and natural investment and create a wider mix of job opportunities. It would recognise the value of the River Tees as a community asset and make people proud to call the area home and less likely to move away.