DEVELOPERS bidding for the contract to build Hanley's new business district were paid £75,000 to submit their tenders.

Minutes of the private meeting of Stoke-on-Trent City Council's executive and members board on Wednesday reveal the three shortlisted bidders were paid £25,000 each.

Tenders to build the £230 million commercial quarter were received from St Modwen Property Plc, Kier Property Limited and Genr8 Developments.

During the meeting, members agreed to award the contract to Manchester-based Genr8 Developments.

The decision-making panel also authorised the city council's director of regeneration, Tom Macartney, to enter into negotiations with Genr8 Developments to finalise the detailed plans for the scheme.

Mr Macartney is visiting the MIPIM international property and development conference in Cannes this week to secure further support and investment in the Business District project.

He is expected to report back to the executive and members board in due course.