THIS is how part of Kidderminster town centre could look if ambitious plans to re - vitalise the area are given the go-ahead.

Investment firm Henderson Global Investors has submitted a planning application to Wyre Forest District Council to enhance the town centre.

The application focuses on plans to transform the River Stour into a centrepiece within a new public square, which would feature markets, fetes and other events, flanked by new restaurants and cafes.

The proposals include new trees and landscaping, street furniture, seating and pedestrian priority space.

It would also involve the demolition of a number of shops and offices, including Crown House, but bosses said they proposed to relocate all affected shops within the town centre.

Proposals for Weavers Wharf include a new anchor business, three restaurants next to the canal and three café/shop units overlooking the new square.

There would also be a new bridge over the Staffordshire and Worcester Canal to pro - vide access to Matalan directly from Weavers Wharf retail park.

Following public consultation in October, the plans now include new disabled parking spaces and facilities for drop - ping off shoppers within the town centre.

The Frank Freeman memorial plaque will also be retained and Henderson will also be working with the council to deliver a music heritage town trail.

Martin Perry, director of retail development at Henderson, said: “We have engaged extensively with the commu - nity on this project and the feedback received has been extremely useful in helping us finalise our proposals.

“We are excited about this next stage in the development process and hope to begin work to transform the area next year.”

Conservative John Campion, the district council’s leader, added: “It is important that Kidderminster adapts and changes with the times.

“The submission of this planning application is a key milestone in the revitalisation of Kidderminster.”

A decision is expected to be made in March or April and work would be likely to start next year