Birmingham City Council has launched what it says is a unique marketing initiative by publishing for the first time a detailed breakdown of 60 potential regeneration sites.

Three Area Investment Prospectuses, covering 400 hectares of land outside the city centre, were unveiled yesterday to developers and investors.

Among the land identified, described as ripe for redevelopment, is the former IMI site in Witton, the HP Sauce factory in Aston, the Smith & Nephew site on Alum Rock Road and the former MG Rover factory at Longbridge.

City council leader Mike Whitby said more than 30,000 new jobs could be created if all of the sites were developed.

The prospectuses reflected growing global interest in Birmingham as a city worthy of investing in, Coun Whitby (Con Harborne) said.

"This is a watershed that will be recognised for its energy, zeal and determination," he added.

For each site the prospectuses feature an aerial map, description of the site, its use, size and location, current owner-ship and planning status, and details of any current and future regeneration plans which affect the area.

Any company wishing to invest is being offered the council's development management skills, which can help accelerate the planning process, and also advice on attracting third party funding and securing Government grants.