THE developer behind plans for a retail park says jobs will be created and safeguarded.

Sunniside Properties and Mono Containers want to build on 100,000 sq ft of land in Dragon Lane, Dragonville, Durham.

The development would feature stores selling bulky goods and electrical and DIY products and there would be fast food outlets, a crche and parking for 400 cars.

The land is owned by plastic food packaging manufacturer Mono Containers who want to create a food packaging operation and build a new warehouse.

The company said the plan would protect the jobs of about 200 employees.

Operations director Paul Reddington said: "This presents an ideal opportunity to redevelop an under-used part of our site and raise capital for investment in the business, which will improve efficiency and productivity, safeguarding jobs at Durham."

Sunniside Properties director Philip Gibbs said: "Another benefit of this proposal is that the site is right next to the existing district centre and provides a great opportunity to consolidate and enhance the facilities along Sherburn Road and Dragon Lane.

"This would make the centre more compact, accessible and sustainable from a transport and access point of view, which is entirely in line with the Government's planning guidelines for retail development."

Two other retail developments are planned for sites nearby.

One project has been launched by Alexage Ltd for Dragon Lane and another, north of Renny's Lane, has been proposed by Dragonville Developments Ltd.

These two schemes will be the subject of a four-day public inquiry in June.

Sunniside Properties and Mono Containers are asking that their application also be considered at the same hearing.

Mr Gibbs said it was very clear that there was a demand for such a development for this under-used area of Durham.

He said: "We can meet that demand in a sensitive way, enhance an existing district centre and provide investment in a local business, protecting jobs.

"We believe our partnership offers creative solutions to complex planning issues and hope the council and the Secretary of State agree.

"We are optimistic and enthusiastic about our proposal, which we will explain to the local community through a proper communications and public consultation exercise."