A massive £55 million major redevelopment plan that will see the majority of Wolverhampton city centre's main streets, public squares and open spaces given a major overhaul, has been unveiled by council chiefs.

The ambitious 'Westside Link' proposal will limit traffic flow throughout the city by removing existing roadways in favour of pedestrianised areas, getting rid of 'unnecessary' street furniture and signage, and creating 'uncluttered' paved areas - including a new public plaza.

A new multi-screen cinema also forms part of the project.

Members of the public are currently being asked to give their views on the proposals as part of a city-wide consultation.

A detailed exhibition outlining the scheme is currently on display in the main foyer at the Civic Centre, along with a suggestion box.

CGI of Westside Wolverhampton

This plans will remain available to view in the council offices until Friday, October 26, and members of the public have until Friday, November 2, to submit their comments.

City bosses say the huge redevelopment will be undertaken in two phases.

Phase One, which is scheduled to be carried out between May 2019 and December 2019, will concentrate on the area around Victoria Street, Skinner Street, Salop Street and School Street.

It will see the removal of the existing roadway in Victoria Street, the clearance of 'obstructions' such as benches, barriers and road signs, and ultimately the creation of a completely new and simplified large spacious, central public area.

The existing taxi rank will be relocated to either School Street or Darlington Street.

CGI of Westside Wolverhampton

Phase Two, which is due to follow from January 2020 to July 2021, will focus on Queen Square, Lichfield Street, Cheapside, Exchange Street and Darlington Street.

This will involve the removal of the roadway through Queen Square and into Lichfield Street - just allowing for cycle access - and the establishment of a new city square centred around the Prince Albert statue, creating a large open space designed for staging public events. The plans also list the inclusion of a variety of mature trees throughout.

City centre designers say parking space will not be reduced under the scheme, and disabled car owners will be re-accommodated in existing car parks and also on-street. Bus routes will be redirected with new stops provided.

Wolverhampton City Council leader, Cllr Roger Lawrence (Lab. St Peter's), said: "The Westside Link proposal forms part of the city's 'Connected Places' strategy that will limit traffic flows through the city centre core, providing a unique opportunity to create a series of safe and attractive spaces that will allow the city to host a variety of events.

"The proposals are expected to reduce vacancy rates in the city centre, create jobs and bring in more money to the city economy through a combination of improved retail and leisure activities, as well as creating a high-quality public realm and city living environment, including new hotel provisions.

"This is important for our future as cities move away from being primarily retail destinations.

"So with this exciting redevelopment we will be ensuring Wolverhampton remains vibrant, busy and successful," he added.

The scheme will be supported jointly by funding from the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership; West Midlands Combined Authority; Defra-Air Quality; the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport; Smart City, Events City and match funding.

Members of the public are encouraged to go along to the Civic Centre and view the plans. Feedback can be given via a comment card in the foyer, by email to westsidelink@wolverhampton.gov.uk or in writing to Ruth Taylor, City Development, Civic Centre, St Peter's Square, Wolverhampton, WV1 1RP.

For more information people can call Ruth Taylor on 01902 555635 or visit the website at www.investwolverhampton.com/westsidelink