Gateshead council has revealed plans to redevelop the Gateshead International Stadium into a multi-million pound sports village.

Proposals for the 7-acre site include a new ice rink, a links golf course and an indoor "snow dome".

A new watersport facility could also be built on the banks of the nearby River Tyne, while a retail and restaurant zone will surround the stadium.

The council has launched a search for a development partner for the project.

Councillor David Napier, a cabinet member for culture, said: "Our aim is to develop something really special at Gateshead.

Gateshead Council is already investing £29m in new sport and leisure facilities in Gateshead, building two new leisure faciliites and redeveloping Gateshead Leisure Centre, Dunston Pool and Birtley Pool.

"Now we are looking for a developer to take on an even bigger challenge, by creating the region's top ice arena and laying the foundations to a sports village worthy of Olympic champions."

Image: Plans for the revamp were announced during the Olympic handover celebrations last week