COUNCIL chiefs have unveiled plans to transform a popular part of the New Forest coastline.

Hundreds of thousands of pounds will be spent on enhancing Hythe Promenade if long-awaited proposals to create a lively waterfront area are approved.

Plans include an amphitheatre behind the Lord Nelson pub and a footbridge linking the northern end of the promenade with Hythe's historic pier.

The amphitheatre, comprising a stepped seating area overlooking a tree-lined plaza, will host markets and events connected with the Waterside Arts Festival.

Other proposals include landscaped gardens and a timber boardwalk that will form an extension to the existing structure.

The promenade currently comprises a service road and a narrow footpath that ends in a concrete wall facing the pier.

The redevelopment scheme will improve public access to the waterfront, separate traffic from pedestrians and enable the village to exploit its prize asset.

Many of the proposals stem from the Hythe Village Centre Action Plan, which states: "The waterfront is Hythe's most unexploited asset. It commands unrivalled views of Southampton Water and the big ships travelling in and out of the port.

"There are opportunities to enhance the promenade and introduce year-round water-based activities."

The scheme, expected to cost about £350,000, will be implemented by Hampshire County Council and New Forest District Council in partnership with Hythe Parish Council and other organisations in the village.

Council chiefs say the promenade is currently dominated by parked cars and large expanses of asphalt.

Other problems include derelict planting areas, damaged seats and walls, and a raised grass area that is inaccessible to elderly and disabled people.

The new ten-point plan to transform the promenade will remove most of the service road and confine cars to an area behind Hythe Kebab Centre.

A safe crossing point for pedestrians will be provided at the coastal end of Admirals Walk, which links the promenade with Hythe High Street.

Officials are also proposing to relocate the existing footpath between St John's Street and a property called The Boat House.

Brian Daley, of Hythe Business Partnership, said: "It's not until you see the proposals that you realise how unattractive the promenade is at the moment."

Tom Russell, the district council's Cabinet member for economy and planning said: "The plans are designed to create an attractive and lively waterfront. The development will be a focus for the village, attracting visitors as well as providing easier access for commuters travelling to Southampton by ferry."

The proposals have gone on show at the parish council offices in St John's Street, Hythe. The exhibition runs until November 29.