HUNDREDS of jobs will be created by plans to transform part of Gateshead into a huge leisure complex, it has been announced.

A new hotel, offices, shops, cafes and restaurants will be created on the 10-acre plot at the entrance to the Team Valley trading estate in Gateshead. The site has been empty since the former Huwoods factory was demolished three years ago.

Developers UK Land Estates, which is based on the Team Valley, has submitted multi-million pound plans to Gateshead Council to allow it to transform the site, known as Kingsway North.

The proposals, drawn up by Newcastle-based architects Red Box Design Group, seek the development of 100,000sq ft of offices, a 100-bedroom three-star hotel, 2,000sq ft of shops, bar and restaurants, a car showroom, and 659 car parking spaces.

The developers say the complex could create around 750 jobs, as well as creating over 120 jobs during the building stage.

Gateshead Council will consider the plans in the coming weeks.

Anthony Greally, senior associate director at the Newcastle office of national planning consultants Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners, submitted the planning application for the UK Land Estates.

He said: “We estimate that once built out, the development could create over 750 jobs. Our proposals were very well received when we consulted local businesses and residents before submitting the application.”