Plans for a major regeneration of the northern edge of Belfast city centre have been unveiled by a development consortium.

The Northside project could see the development of up to 3,000 apartments and houses, mainly for students. It is a partnership between developer Kevin McKay, global construction firm Balfour Beatty and Northern Ireland's Department for Social Development.

The scheme will have a mix of uses including managed student accommodation, private housing, social housing and retail. It will be the biggest private sector development in Belfast since the construction of the Victoria Square shopping centre.

The consortium has said it will represent an investment of up to £300m, directly providing employment for more than 600 construction workers.