A BUSINESS centre has been put forward for a design award before it has even opened.

The £1.63m building, in the Consett Business Park, will open tomorrow. It is hoped the park will encourage more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the electronics industry to settle in north-west Durham.

The building's design has led to it being put forward for the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors North-East Renaissance Awards.

The awards, taking place in Newcastle on April 16, will highlight achievements in areas including regeneration, sustainability and excellence in design.

John Pearson, director of development and asset management at Derwentside District Council, said: "The new business centre will form part of a strategy to improve Derwentside's economy through stimulating enterprise to increase the growth of companies and create sustainable employment."

Julie Freeman, business centre manager, said: "The centre will provide an attractive operating environment for businesses and, with the range of support available, we hope it will provide a firm foundation in which businesses will be able to thrive and grow."