RESIDENTS are being asked for their views on plans for development of a former pit site.

An exhibition of plans for the 35-hectare former Vane Tempest Colliery site, on the Durham coast, in Seaham, is being held at Rock House Community Centre, Tempest Road from 3pm to 8pm today and 10am to 2pm tomorrow.

The proposed development comprises more than 500 homes, retail units, a pub/restaurant, work units, a community centre and a facility for older residents.

The regional development agency, One NorthEast, has chosen a consortium of three local house builders - Yuill Homes, Haslam Homes and Miller Homes - as its preferred developers, and they will go through the planning process in the coming weeks.

A major element is substantial belts of landscaping and open space.

There will be artwork and other features to complement continuing seafront improvements. Sustainability and energy efficiency are key considerations, with a network of foot and cycle paths and strong public transport links.

Haslam Homes' land manager, Richard Bass, said: "Seaham is being transformed, with massive public and private investment in transport links, reclamation, town centre and harbour regeneration, and environmental improvements. Our scheme will help accelerate Seaham's evolution in this new era."

exhibition is open from 3pm to 8pm today and 10am to 2pm on Wednesday.

The new development is designed to the highest quality, and will create a distinctive, attractive place for residents to live and work.