PLANS for the largest redevelopment of Newcastle city centre since the construction of Eldon Square shopping centre will be put under the spotlight later this month.

The £120m plans, to be discussed by Newcastle city councillors on Wednesday, March 20, include partial demolition of the southern end of Eldon Square, including the Greenmarket.

They will also see a new bus station replace the underground concourse and improvements to Grainger Market.

Details are being drawn up by the city council in partnership with Capital Shopping Centres and Shell Pension Fund, which jointly own the shopping centre.

Plans to move Eldon Square bus concourse from its underground position, to Prudhoe Street, have been agreed by the council's cabinet.

Following a design competition, Comprehensive Design Architects have been chosen to move the concourse.

Their plans will make available an extra 50,000sq ft of space.

Plans for the remodelling of the southern end of Eldon Square could be submitted this summer, with completion during 2005/6.