A MAJOR hurdle in the multi-million revamp of Winchester city centre has been overcome.

Winchester civic leaders have finally signed an agreement for the Friars-gate/Broadway development. The deal with London-based developers Thornfield was signed just before Christmas, but the news has only just been released.

The final hurdle means that consultation on the designs and proposals will start shortly. Council leader Sheila Campbell said: "We are confident that Thornfield are the right partners for the council in this development.

The £100m regeneration of the area is set to give a huge boost to Winchester's economy by attracting new businesses.