MAJOR firms are showing an interest in taking up spaces in a part of Kidderminster, according to the developers handed the task of revamping the area.

Final plans to breathe new life into Worcester Street could include an eight-screen cinema, 20-lane bowling alley, hotel, bars, restaurants and housing.

Wyre Forest District Council chose to work in partnership with Wilson Bowden Developments to turn the vision, which aims to improve access for pedestrians and motorists, into reality.

Claire Burrell, spokeswoman for the Leicestershire-based company, said the project was at an early stage and was unable to give a date when plans would be ready.

She explained: "We are working closely with the council and have had negotiations with retailers. We have been encouraged by the interest shown in Kidderminster. We cannot give out any particular names or details about that at the moment."

Worcester Street will be pedestrianised under the proposals and lights will be installed at the nearby traffic island to give people the choice of crossing or using the subway.

John Campion, the council's cabinet member for finance and corporate affairs, said the scheme would "create a great gateway" into Kidderminster's centre.

He added: "This is an exciting opportunity for the council to produce a leisure quarter in the town, which will draw people in from outside the district."