A LEISURE company has unveiled plans for a new multi-million pound nightclub in Chester-le-Street.

Vimac Leisure Ltd will transform a site on Front Street into a premier late night bar and club with capacity for up to 800 people.

The £2.2m development will be set over two floors, each having an individual music policy. The contemporary interior design will be a continuation of the Vimac Leisure Studio brand, which has been a success in cities such as Glasgow and Durham.

Managing Director Paul Makings said: "We are delighted to have acquired the site. Studio on Front Street will bring a new, vibrant bar and club to Chester-le-Street."

Company operations director Rob Smith said: "We have been meeting local residents and will be working closely with them in the future to ensure that the business works smoothly in the Chester-le-Street environment. We will also be providing extra funding for policing at that end of the town."

Work will start in the next few weeks, with construction taking about ten weeks.

The new Studio is expected to open in April.