IT seemed ironic in a week when "The History of Shipbuilding" exhibition opened in Sunderland, plans to breathe new life into the area's former industrial heartland were a million miles away from the shipyards.

The past will certainly be giving way to the future as the 15-year blueprint was unveiled, which according to its authors will transform Sunderland into a "thriving and dynamic" city.

After a year-long study into the best way forward for the area, the task group unveiled what it itself admitted were "ambitious" plans.

The shipyards, coalfields and brewery will be replaced by the call centres, leisure businesses, and digital technology parks.

The proposals take in an area from the A19 to the port, along the south bank of the River Wear and include some of the city's most deprived districts. If all goes to plan the results would see 10,000 new jobs and more than 1,000 new homes created.

The plans include:

l A new mixed use business and residential quarter including a four star hotel at the former Vaux brewery.

lFormer site of Groves Cranes at Pallion will be transformed into a high amenity business and residential neighbourhood with a digital business park, 800 quality new private sector homes and a key role for the University to nurture and develop high-tech business

lCity centre development with the Metro extension, due to be completed in 2002, improving access to the centre of Sunderland

lDistinctive historical riverside and cultural quarter in old Sunderland.

lprovide focus for e-commerce and expanded dockside trading at Port of Sunderland, or alternatively mirroring the development on the north bank with new businesses, residential property and leisure facilities

It was 12 months ago that regional development agency One NorthEast was commissioned by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Stephen Byers, to lead the task force with Sunderland city council to develop an imaginative strategy for the region to the south of the River Wear, known as the Sunderland Arc.

After presenting their findings last week to Mr Byers, the Arc group yesterday showed off their scheme to the public.

Chairman of task force Dr John Bridge said: "We are confident that the overall vision is ambitious, yet at the same time, realistic given the 15-year period of the strategy. The next step is to ensure that the plans are driven forward with enthusiasm and passion, but with the emphasis on business and value for money and we believe the ARC Regeneration Company could make that happen."

Investment will be the key to the scheme's success, and an executive has been set up with a strong private sector representation and direct public involvement