A NEW Master Plan on how to regenerate an area close to Darlington town centre is to be created.

Darlington Borough Council is planning to invest £153,000 in the creation of the blueprint for the area to the east of Darlington.

The document will also set out plans for the creation of a cultural quarter for the town.

The Master Plan will set out a guide for the development of identified sites over the next 15 years.

The council hopes it will provide a clear and essential guide for future private and public investment.

It is intended the plan will propose modern housing sites which aim to provide places to live near to the town centre as well as attractive open spaces and areas for business development and growth to encourage new jobs.

The funding, the majority of which is provided by One North East, will support the work to create the document which, it is hoped, will help future funding bids to secure further investment.

The plan will also set out possible improvements to the travel options connecting the east of the town with the centre.

These improvements could offer new access to jobs and services for three of the most disadvantaged wards in the area.

Coun John Williams, leader of the council, said: "Whilst we face difficult times ahead in terms of the public funding, we are determined to continue to invest in securing Darlington's future prosperity.

"The creation of a Master Plan for the area east of Darlington town centre will help us to secure further funding for the area and help to bring about wider benefits for both the residents and wider economy of Darlington."

David Cramond, Director of Capital Development at One North East, said: "This is an important step forward for Darlington.

"The new Master Plan will provide a framework for future growth, pointing the way to further physical regeneration, business creation and new jobs for the town."

The first draft of the proposed 'Master Plan' will be published for public consultation in 2011.

The funding is made up of £117,000 One North East single programme funding, and £36,000 from Darlington Borough Council.