MORE details have emerged about plans to rescue a town centre which earlier this year was branded "beyond redemption".

Artists' impressions and detailed maps will go on display today in Stockton's Shambles Market Hall in an attempt to engage the public after years of failed schemes for the town's High Street.

Outline plans were unveiled in March and now more information has been given in an attempt to enthuse businesses and the public.

In 2004, a revamp scheme that would have been worth £80m was unveiled to the public. However, the ideas came to nothing and, since then, the Swalllow Hotel, McDonald's and a number of other businesses have abandoned Stockton town centre.

In January, it led former leader of Stockton Borough Council, Bob Gibson, to point to the 16 per cent vacancy rate and say the town centre was "beyond redemption".

In the light of his comments, Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham was inspired to walk the streets of the town with a petition for shoppers to demand improvements.

But since plans were announced for a £20 makeover for Stockton, there has been some cause for optimism, with 45 new businesses either arriving, expanding or relocating within the town centre and riverside areas.

Previously announced proposals include improving the Castlegate Centre and a £4m revamp of the Globe Theatre.

Work has already begun on restoring old buildings, restoring the Shambles, removing dead and diseased trees and repainting street furniture.

The Central Library is due tore-open on November 1 after a £1.9m refurbishment.

Now more flesh has been put on the bones of the proposal. Councillors want 107 more parking spaces created in High Street to improve access for shoppers, a dedicated location for the market, separate areas for festivals and events and views opened up towards the riverside and Infinity Bridge.

Other plans for High Street include a new road layout for buses, cars and taxis, a dedicated seating area in the centre of the High Street, parking re-introduced to the High Street, a dedicated area for outdoor events and creating a plaza to connect the town to the riverside.

Councillor Mike Smith, Stockton council's cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said: "Although we have much detailed design work still to complete on materials and finishes, these displays will give a very good impression of what we are trying to do to make Stockton town centre a better place."

The council's cabinet will consider the latest proposals in December with work likely to start next spring.