A SHOWPIECE botanical and wildlife centre could form part of a city's ambitious regeneration strategy.

Newcastle City Council and Newcastle University are considering ideas for a multi-million pound oasis with a string of satellite gardens in Going for Growth development areas.

Although talks are at an early stage, the stunning glasshouse complex, similar to those in Birmingham and Edinburgh, would be a major tourist attraction and valuable learning and research tool for students and schoolchildren.

Possible garden locations include Exhibition Park, near the city centre, Great North Park to the north of the city, Scotswood and Benwell in the west and Ouseburn Valley in the east.