A new centre for the creative industries, which will boast a BBC drama production complex, is set to be developed in Cardiff under plans due to be submitted next month.

Welsh deputy first minister Ieuan Wyn Jones has confirmed the Welsh Assembly Government is working in partnership with Cardiff Council and the BBC to build a new Digital Media Centre on a 27-acre (11-hectare) site at Roath Basin. The scheme, which will form the second stage of the wider Media Capital project, aims to provide a media hub for a range of independent production companies, as well as complementing the BBC's bid to relocate drama production to the area.

Owned by the Welsh Assembly Government, Roath Basin is one of the largest single undeveloped sites remaining in Cardiff Bay and the development of a new creative industries complex is expected to help drive economic recovery. Jones said: "If planning consent is granted, its construction could begin within months which would create and safeguard crucial jobs in the construction industry at a time when this is much needed.

"Crucially, when operational it should also play a vital role in terms of creating sustainable jobs supported by training and skills provision and prosperity - which is central to my vision of bringing about economic renewal in Wales."