BATTLE lines are being drawn up over plans to develop the tallest building in the North-East.

The proposed 32-storey Northern Light building at the junction of the Tyne and Ouseburn rivers in Newcastle has been hailed by some as a symbol of the region's regeneration.

But objectors have condemned the block of luxury homes, which would be five times the height of the Angel of the North, as a monstrosity out of keeping with the area.

Newcastle Lib-Dem councillor Stephen Psallidas said the building would dominate the skyline and be a poor fit with adjacent developments of a more modest height.

A decision on the proposal drew closer yesterday when developer George Wimpey City submitted to Newcastle City Council a detailed environmental assessment, carried out at the instruction of the Secretary of State.

George Wimpey City managing director Ronnie Baird said last night: "We have taken great care in the design of the building.

"It is exceptionally slim so, when viewed from east to west along the river, existing views will be retained.

"One of the objects is to have 50 per cent of the site kept as open space.

"And as part of the scheme there will be a major investment in improving and moving the main pumping station."

Mr Baird said there would be provision for a restaurant and caf and the developer would be contributing to the new Quayside transit system and providing cycle and walkways.

Mr Baird said: "We believe the Northern Light building will be symbolic of regeneration in cultural and economic terms.

"The building has already won a design award from the Royal institue of British Architects for its potential excellence.

"It represents an investment of £30m and 225 temporary construction jobs over the three years it will take to complete."