Plans include a cableway to the summit of Cefn Du

Gwynedd Council has asked for tenders for ideas for transforming 200 acres of abandoned quarries near Llanberis.

Beicio Llanberis Cyf has submitted its bid to develop its cycle centre, which would depend on a mix of European and private funding.

If chosen, work would start early next year and the centre would open in 2008.

The community cooperative behind the plans hope to make Canolfan Glyn Rhonwy the hub for adventure sports events and mountain biking competitions in the area.

The centre will also feature a visitor centre, cafe, bike shop, lecture theatre and small business units.

Organisers said they already had outline permission from some local landowners for opening further corridors of land for trails covering another 700 to 800 acres.

At least one other party is said to be interested in the site

A cableway would also be built along the lines of the quarry holes from the centre to near the summit of Cefn Du.

The plans have been developed over the last two years.

Alun Hughes, a film-maker and company chairman said: "This project will confirm Llanberis as the adventure capital of the UK and the associated economic benefits will ensure quality jobs and training for many of our young people who might otherwise leave the area".

It is hoped the centre would employ 250 people, with numbers rising to up to 500.

The deadline for submissions to Gwynedd council is Friday, with a decision expected over the next few weeks.

It is understood there is at least one other party interested in the site.

A council spokesman said: "The council is looking to secure a development that will provide high quality year-round employment, that is in keeping with the local environment and which will benefit the local community."