AMBITIOUS plans are being put in place to regenerate Redditch's tired and dated town centre.

As part of a scheme looking to revamp the area, as well as create a community hub, Redditch Council has commissioned DragonGate Market Intelligence.

The council’s executive board member for economic regeneration, councillor David Bush, said: “Some of town’s assets are underused or in need of replacement.

“So, as part of our plans to regenerate the town centre, we are looking at creating a Community Hub in the town which will offer services to customers and the community in one place.

“It’s a massive scheme and could have implications for our partners, including the police and county council, and beyond, so it’s important all options are researched and evaluated.”

DragonGate is currently looking at site options and future needs for service provision.

Once this has been completed then a business case will be submitted to Redditch Council in the Spring.

Steve Atkinson, from the marketing company, said: “This is a unique opportunity for the council and partners to come together and reshape services around the needs of the customer, the workforce and the local economy.

“The council is taking a very positive step in making this as inclusive as possible of all public, and potentially private, sector partners - ensuring duplication is avoided and that we do not miss out on opportunities to join up our activities for the benefit of residents and businesses.

“It is part of a wide ranging and ambitious scheme and we are delighted to be working with the council in agreeing a far-reaching vision, backed by sound decision-making.”

The Advertiser reported at the end of last year that struggling town centre shops missed out on more than £100,000 of vital emergency funding.

A £435 million business rates relief package was announced in 2017 by Chancellor Philip Hammond.

However, millions of pounds of that failed to reach the businesses it was intended to help, and was instead returned to Treasury coffers.

Redditch Council was given £124,000 but handed out just £15,800 to ailing local firms.

It has given back a whopping £108,200.