A PLAN to redevelop the site of a former television factory into a multi-million pound business park were last night welcomed by the County Durham Development Company (CDDC).

The Northern Echo last week revealed plans, by Mandale Commercial, to build offices, a hotel, restaurant and nursery on the site formerly occupied by electronics group LG Philips, on the Belmont industrial estate, near Durham City.

Mandale said the redevelopment had the potential to create up to 6,000 jobs.

CDDC managing director Stewart Watkins said: "We welcome Mandale's plans, which will breathe new life into the former LG Philips site, bringing new job opportunities.

"Their longer-term plans to add a hotel, nursery and cafes would create valuable new facilities at a location that is already proving very attractive to businesses of all types.

"This development sends out a positive message that County Durham remains a great place to do business."

The site, which was put on the market for more than £5m, was bought by Mandale, which is based in Stockton, earlier this year for an undisclosed sum.

Mandale has submitted a planning application for phase one of the development.

The application is for ten office blocks, a restaurant and parking for 220 cars on four acres of the 40-acre site.

If the plans are approved, Mandale will submit a comprehensive planning application for the rest of the site.