Work on the marina extension could be completed by 2005

Up to a 1,000 new jobs could be created in Hartlepool with a multi-million pound expansion of the town's Marina development.

There are 200 acres of land close to the existing Marina site which have been earmarked for the scheme.

Tees Valley Regeneration have unveiled first details of the plan, which is expected to boost the local and regional economy.

Homes, businesses and leisure facilities will be constructed on the brownfield site at Victoria Harbour.

Tees Valley Regeneration says it plans to work with the landowners - PD Ports, Logistics and Shipping, and also English Partnerships and regeneration body One North East on the project.

Tees Regeneration's development director Peter James says the scheme is an exciting initiative with huge potential to expand the marina and historic Quay.

A planning application is expected to go before Hartlepool Council early in 2004, and if all goes to plan work could start on site early in 2005.