DURHAM City MP Gerry Steinberg has welcomed a decision to allow a retail development to be built in the city.

The Department of the Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has approved four planning applications for retail parks on the Dragonville Industrial Estate.

The plans were the subject of a public inquiry in July, after the Government called-in the proposals to see how they fitted in with planning guidance on out-of-town retail development and local development policies.

Mr Steinberg said: "For many years I have supported the development of this site and vigorously lobbied Ministers to ensure they were aware of its importance to the area.

"I am therefore delighted that this was recognised and progress can now be made to realise this vision."

The proposals include building a non-food park between Dragon Lane and Damson Way, to be built by Alexage Limited, and a bid by Dragonville Developments to build a B&Q store, garden centre and eight other stores.

Plans were also approved for a DIY and bulky goods unit, a fast-food restaurant and creche, in a joint bid by Sunniside Properties and Mono Containers.