HOLIDAY cabins and an 18-hole golf course could transform one of the area's best known landscapes.

Proposals for the development in the shadow of the Newton Cap Viaduct, near Bishop Auckland, go before planners this evening.

Former Newcastle footballer Allan Barker's company Castle Golf is behind the scheme, which would create jobs and draw visitors to the town.

The course was part of a long-term strategy envisaged when, in August 2003, he opened a driving range with his brother Joe and ex-Darlington player Lee Ellison.

Based at Flatts Farm and with a spectacular view of the viaduct as well as the Bishop of Durham's palace Auckland Castle, the centre was called Eleven Arches in tribute to the famous old landmark.

The new site would have the River Wear on three sides. Farm buildings would become a function room, bar, games room, shop and kitchen.

Because it is close to Binchester Roman Fort, an archaeological survey would have to carried out.

Wear Valley District Council's development control committee will vote on the scheme tonight.

Mr Barker plans to run the course on a pay-to-play basis and not as a members club. He said: "I want it to be as accessible as possible. It will be somewhere people can just turn up and play making it easy for visitors and local people to use.

"There is a market for people who can't afford to join a club but just want to play golf.

"If I get permission I can be ready to start straight away and have nineholes open within two years and follow straight on with the rest.

"A development like this can only be good for the regeneration of Bishop Auckland and the whole area."

Planners are advising approval of the scheme subject to conditions relating to issues including materials, traffic and site investigations.

The chalets and clubhouse could not be used until the nine hole course is ready.

* Golf club takeover bid: Page 16