Plans for a multi-million pound shopping complex in Bishop Auckland have been revealed.

Work could start on the retail centre towards the end of the year or early next year should proposals for three to four units and accompanying parking space be given the go-ahead.

The 33,000sq ft development, which will have about 190 car parking spaces, would replace the Go North-East bus depot in North Bondgate, following its closure in April.

The move has been welcomed by traders in the north of the town who say it would bring a much needed boost to the area.

Caf owner Sam Zair, who is also a district councillor, said traders could not wait.

He said: "Plans for the development of that area have been in the pipeline for some time.

"I think it would do the north end of the town the world of good.

"Hopefully, it will also improve the footfall for businesses in Bondgate.

"Shopkeepers have been struggling since Asda moved from that end of the town and hopefully this is the boost that is needed."

Director of regeneration at Wear Valley District Council Bob Hope confirmed that a contractor had been appointed to develop the area and planning permission could be sought by the company within the next few months.

Details of the development came days after plans for the expansion of the nearby Newgate Centre, including a six screen cinema, were unveiled.

Mr Hope said: "These really are exciting times for Bishop Auckland.

"This is one of the first stages of major development in that area of the town.

"Hopefully, it will bring more retail and choice back into the town centre.

"A lot of big names have been approached and there has been a bit of interest.

"The council hopes to enhance the scheme with landscaping in the North Bondgate area."

Town centre manager Derek Toon said: "It will add to the number of shops and offer more variety in the town.

"It will compliment the development ongoing in the Newgate Centre and could be a major improvement for the town."