500 jobs in pipeline if centre move backed

8:01am Friday 16th May 2008

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UP to 500 jobs could be created if a city becomes the base for the Government's controversial ID cards scheme.

The Identity and Passport Service (IPS) is considering establishing its headquarters for the project in offices in County Hall, Durham City.

Discussions between the service and Durham County Council have been ongoing for at least two years and have reached an advanced stage, a senior source said.

If a deal is struck, staff from IPS offices in Millburngate House, Durham, could also move to County Hall.

The new jobs would probably involve administration and production of the ID cards.

An IPS spokesman said the council site was among those being considered as a base. The service's lease on the Millburngate House offices expires in 2014.

John Richardson, the acting chief executive of the council, said: "Durham is an excellent place to invest and the quality of life is fantastic, so we are not surprised there is interest from Government agencies.

"We know we are only one of several sites that IPS are looking at, but we will continue to hold discussions and if any potential relocation is in the interests of the residents of Durham, we will pursue that option with vigour."

The North-East is understood to be the Government's preferred location, and Durham is in a strong position because a site has already been identified. A decision is expected by September.

Councillor Nigel Martin, whose Nevilles Cross division includes County Hall, welcomed the prospect of jobs being created, but said he was concerned congestion in the area would worsen.

The ID cards scheme has been hugely controversial. From 2011, anyone 16 or over applying for a passport will have their details recorded and be given the option of having one of the cards, which would carry their name, address, gender, date and place of birth, immigration status, fingerprints, iris patterns and facial image.