Belfast-based developer, the Benmore Group, has launched a consultation into its plans for a £200m leisure and entertainment development at Speke, near Liverpool.

A 50-acre (20.2-hectare) brownfield site adjacent to the New Mersey Retail Park is set to be transformed as part of the redevelopment, which will boast hotels, a multi-screen cinema, a gym and restaurants. The Benmore Group said talks with a number of potential operators were at an "advanced" stage, with the company aiming to submit plans to Liverpool City Council (LCC) by the end of the summer.

Located near to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, the site is wholly-owned by the Benmore Group and is currently being used as a vehicle storage yard. The scheme is scheduled for completion by mid-2012. David Burrows, chief executive of the Benmore Group, said: "It is our objective to speak with as many people as possible who will have an opinion on the proposals.

"The principle of this development is wholly positive for the ongoing renaissance of the Speke / Garston area and will complement existing developments and bring activity to the area during the evenings." LCC leader Joe Anderson added: "These proposals would complement the existing retail facilities at Speke, improve one of the city's key gateways and create significant new job opportunities in an area where they are needed."