it is hoped to open a visitor centre at the former factory

The site of the former Blue Circle cement works in Weardale could be turned into a windfarm.

The Eastgate, County Durham, plant was controversially closed down by its French owners, Lafarge, in 2002.

The local community was badly hit by the loss of 147 jobs.

On Friday development agency, One North East, is publishing a feasibility report into possible new uses for the site.

One of the suggestions is that it could become a "renewable energy site", demonstrating a range of eco-friendly systems, including a wind farm, hot rocks, and hydro power.

Dr John Bridge of One North East, said: "It could become a centre for alternative energy. There is no reason why the North East should not lead the way in alternative energy."

He said between 30 and 40 jobs could be created at the energy centre. Other parts of the 400 acre site could be used for housing and small industrial units.

It would also feature a visitor centre to attract tourists into the area.

The cement plant opened in 1965, and had to close following an investment programme at Lafarge cement works in the Midlands and Scotland.

Cement from the factory was used for such building programmes as the Oasis holiday village in Cumbria, the Stadium of Light football ground in Sunderland and the Millennium bridge in Newcastle.