THE developers of a North-East business park have thrown their weight behind a capital of culture bid saying it would be good for business.

Highbridge Business Park, the developers behind North Tyneside's Cobalt Park, say winning the title of European Capital of Culture would bring enormous business benefits for a wide range of industries.

Director Guy Marsden said: "The lifestyle that Tyneside offers - compared with any other part of the country - is of paramount importance in winning new employment here.

"The European Capital of Culture bid, through the Newcastle/Gateshead Initiative, is making a magnificent job of enhancing lifestyles for everybody, whatever their age or interest. It is a truly inclusive bid, and we are proud to support it."

Highbridge is one of more than 140 companies which have become members of the Newcastle/Gateshead Initiative.

The chief executive of the initiative, Neil Rami, said: "It is this kind of commitment from organisations and businesses which will play a key role in the delivery of our 2008 plans. Their support contributes to a bid which is financially robust.

"Their backing also enables us to demonstrate the wide level of support that exists for the bid throughout the North- East region."