The government is being urged to build a national athletics stadium on Tyneside.

The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) says a redeveloped Gateshead International Stadium would be "the perfect setting".

It wants the government to consider the option under Newcastle and Gateshead's capital of culture bid for 2008.

The plan has the backing of Olympic gold medal winner Jonathan Edwards.

Jonathan Edwards is supporting the plan

Jon Rouse, chief executive of CABE, said: 'We strongly encourage the Government to look at a bid by Newcastle and Gateshead.

"The north/south divide which prevails in the sporting world has meant that attention has been focussed on London and the South East.

"Newcastle and Gateshead are almost equidistant from John O'Groats and Land's End and are truly at the UK's centre, and would be a fantastic location for a stunning piece of stadium architecture."

Mr Rouse says a revamped Tyneside complex would win Grand Prix events and possible the European and World Championships.

Olympic gold medal triple jumper Jonathan Edwards, who lives on Tyneside, said: "Gateshead Stadium has a tremendous tradition for athletics.

Sporting heritage

"The stadium is in need of some updating and that is going to happen.

"I would love to see a new national stadium here.

Councillor Mick Henry, leader of Gateshead Council said: "Gateshead's commitment to sport at every level is a major part of our joint bid with Newcastle to become European Capital of Culture in 2008.

"We have a solid track record in delivering �1bn worth of major regeneration projects, and combined with our sporting heritage, we can clearly show that Gateshead and Newcastle have nothing to fear when it comes to projects of this scale.

"We are delighted at CABE's confidence in our ability to be a contender for the home of UK athletics."