PLANNING permission for a multi-million pound shopping centre redevelopment which could create hundreds of jobs may be sought within the next fortnight.

Oakgate Group plc hopes to expand the Newgate Centre, in Bishop Auckland, to include new shops, a department store, a multiplex cinema and new cafe bars.

The scheme would also see the bus station behind the centre regenerated, and almost 200 extra parking spaces created.

An exhibition showcasing the ideas was launched in the centre on Tuesday, along with a ballot box requesting comments from members of the public. The centre's owners will study all feedback next week, before lodging a planning application.

"We'll put in for planning permission in January, this month," said the centre's manager Dave Wilson.

"We'd like to put it in by the end of the month.

"That's why we're collecting feedback now, which we will put in along with the planning application. The more support it generates, the better and easier it will be in the long run."

So far, he added, the comments received have been positive, while Wear Valley District Council have already backed the scheme.

"It's going to benefit the surrounding area," said Mr Wilson.

"It's going to be a gold mine for Bondgate because it's going to run right into it.

"It will also tidy up the bus station - it's an eyesore at the moment. It will be a much-needed boost for the town.

"It's not a pie in the sky job."

The Oakgate Group, from Wetherby, bought the centre for £8m in 2003, taking over from Asda supermarket, and Mr Wilson said that the expansion was always likely.

"I think it was always the plan," he admitted, although he could not confirm how much the scheme would cost at this stage.

At least a dozen new shops are proposed, as well as a six-screen cinema and 184 new parking spaces, taking the centre's overall total to more than 500.

Two companies have expressed an interest in the department store, while a major cinema operator has also been lined up for the development.

In 2004, the council appointed a team of consultants led by the Red Box Design Group to produce development plans for the town centre.

The new ideas for the Newgate Centre fulfil many elements of that blueprint.

Bob Hope, the council's director of regeneration, said yesterday: "It's a positive step for the town centre."