THE Daily Echo can today reveal the radical plans that will form the next stage in the transformation of Southampton city centre.

A revolutionary scheme to create a cultural quarter has been unveiled - with a prime site up for grabs.

Council chiefs have put forward proposals to convert the derelict Tyrrell and Green building into homes and an arts centre.

It is the latest stage of a dramatic new vision for Southampton. Plans released last month for the £131m project to complete the West Quay development included an indoor arena and continental-style plaza.

A scheme to rebuild Ocean Village is already under way and proposals have been brought forward to breathe life back into the city's Old Town.

The Tyrrell building has lain empty since the opening of the £295m WestQuay shopping centre two years ago and council chiefs hope its conversion will kick-start the arts quarter revolution.

Council leader councillor June Bridle said: "This is a major opportunity to reinvigorate a key part of Southampton and give it a key identity."

Civic centre bosses hope the revamp of the building will prove a catalyst for its attempts to:

Create the cultural quarter

Regenerate the northern Above Bar area

Link through the current Tyrell and Green site from Guildhall Square to East Park

Cllr Bridle said: "We've worked closely with the private sector to come up with this vision.

"It won't be a quick fix and there are key stages such as the successful appointment of a partner to redevelop the Tyrrell and Green site.

"But at the end I believe we'll have yet another jewel in the crown of the south's leading city."

FOR MORE ON THE PROPOSED RE-DEVELOPMENT OF THE NORTHERN-END OF ABOVE BAR SEE PAGE THREE OF TODAY'S DAILY ECHO.