VILLAGERS were able to have their say as plans to give Hamble a major facelift were unveiled to the public.

High Street and Rope Walk have already been re-surfaced and refurbished through Hampshire County Council's Regeneration of Older Urban Areas Scheme.

Now the spotlight has fallen on Hamble Square - a focal point for the famous yachting mecca - and a master plan has been drawn up for publication consultation.

As well new paving stones, the major makeover will include new lighting and tree planting and a reorganisation of the car park and bus stops.

Local people will be able to make their views known before the final designs leave the drawing board.

Possible options for the square were displayed at a public exhibition, which was held at Hamble Memorial Hall.

An Eastleigh Council spokesman said there had been a good response, with about 30 people visiting the exhibition in the first hour.

Villagers were also asked to fill in a questionnaire on the future operation of the square's public car park.

Currently parking is free at any time of the day but now the public are being asked whether there should be limits on how long vehicles can stay.

During the public consultations there will also be talks with village traders before planners report back to Eastleigh Borough and Hampshire County councils.