MAJOR plans to begin the building of new office space in Middlesbrough are to be considered today.

Middlesbrough Council’s planning committee will meet in the Town Hall to hear the proposals.

The plans for the land to the east of Centre Square East have been proposed by Ashall Projects who hope to create around 210,000 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation, enhanced public realm and landscaping with additional food and beverage outlets.

The office development has been highlighted as a major part of the council’s investment plans for the town.

Over the next four years the Council is planning to invest £74 million into a series of developments as part of the town’s Investment Prospectus.

The first application is for the approval of the first two buildings and for outline planning permission for the whole scheme, which would comprise five buildings.

A protest against the scheme is planned to take place ahead of the meeting starting at 12.45pm next to the fountain.

The planning meeting takes place from 1.30pm.