People in Telford are being asked what they think of £250 million proposals to transform the town centre before a planning application is submitted in the next few months.

Work could start next year if the joint project of Telford & Wrekin Council and Telford International Centre (TIC) gets the go-ahead.

The Southwater redevelopment is for land between the TIC and the “green sheds” of Spencers Shopping Mall.

It is currently out for public consultation.

The adjoining grassed arena is not included and could house a war memorial.

The scheme aims to provide a cultural quarter worthy of a growing 21st century town.

Council officials have put together £50 million of public sector investment and are hoping to attract £200 million from the private sector.

The proposal is to bring 2,000 jobs, 400 homes, offices, an international hotel, a learning and media centre, swimming pool, ice rink, bowling centre, bars, restaurants to Southwater.

A new tree-lined pedestrian street would link an expanded international centre, town park and Telford Shopping Centre.

And there would be a public square as big as Brindley Square in the centre of Birmingham.

Council leader Andrew Eade said conference and exhibition visitors brought £28 million each year into the local economy, spending money in the shops and visiting attractions like the town park and Ironbridge.

He said it was vitally important to provide facilities and a pleasant environment for visitors to Telford and local people alike.

“We are looking at putting forward a joint planning application by July and want to start work in the summer of 2010,” he said.

As part of the consultation, people are being asked about leisure, public space and commercial development in Southwater.

To join in visit www. southwatercore.co.uk or call Transforming Telford on (01952) 567567.

By Simon Hardy