PLANS for a 17-storey building next to St James’ Park have been submitted after Magpies’ boss Mike Ashley decided to develop the land himself.

Original proposals for a hotel, retail and housing complex in the shadow of the Newcastle United were dropped in August when the football boss decided to look into other options.

Details on the new application show that the development is likely to include a 10-storey office block, more than 150 flats in a 17-storey block, an eight-storey student accommodation block, an underground car park and commercial space for shops and restaurants.

Around 500 jobs were due to have been created as part of a £47m mixed-use development on the car park next to St James’ Metro station, but Tolent Construction confirmed it was no longer involved.

Now a Doncaster-based property based developer and investor, Marrico Asset Management LLP, has asked for a “screening opinion” from Newcastle City Council on its proposals for the land.

Property consultants at Lambert Smith Hampton in Newcastle have submitted the request on behalf of Marrico, in respect of its proposals for the development of the car park and associated land at St James’ Metro Station, Gallowgate for a mix of uses.