PLANS to build a business park in a North-East town have been given the go-ahead.

Up to 2,000 jobs could be created at the park on the outskirts of Darlington.

Darlington Borough Council and regional development agency One NorthEast will sign the agreement laying the foundations for the park, either today or tomorrow.

The 28-acre scheme will be built on land at Morton Palms, next to the A66 and Yarm Road, Darlington.

Work to build the park is due to start in September, and the site will be marketed to potential businesses early next year.

Darlington Borough Council leader John Williams said it was great news for the town.

"When it is completed, we will have a business park to rival any in the North-East, which will bring investment into Darlington and create job opportunities for local people.

"It will be a real asset to the town and we look forward to working with One NorthEast and the developers to produce a high-quality park which we can all be proud of."

The park will be opposite McDonald's and back on to land at the rear of the Cummins' building.

Once the infrastructure is in place a developer will be sought to begin the project.

Public investment of £5m has been secured, but the council believes there is potential for private investment of over £17m.

One NorthEast said last night it did not wish to comment until the agreement was signed, but last year, Jonathan Blackie, its director of strategy and external affairs, said the business park was a prime site, only five minutes' drive from the railway station in Darlington and Teesside International Airport.

He said: "Backed by leisure facilities, the site will be attractive to investors, a prestigious location to work and generally a real boost to the economy of Darlington.

"We expect about 2,000 jobs to be created as a direct result of investment at Morton Palms, making it not only beneficial to Darlington, but a jewel in the crown for Tees Valley."