Telford and Wrekin Council (TWC) has committed to locating its new civic offices at the heart of a new £250m regeneration scheme, which is designed to transform the town's Southwater area.

It is hoped that the council's investment in the new Southwater offices will help drive forward the redevelopment plans and attract increased inward investment from the private sector as part of the scheme. Plans for the Southwater development aim to provide the town with a thriving night-time economy centred around a pedestrian high street and including cafés, bars and restaurants, as well as a new public square for events and arts.

An extension to the Telford International Centre and a new leisure hub, featuring a revamped ice rink, a new leisure pool and a cinema, form part of the scheme, along with two new hotels, four office buildings and a new Learning and Media Centre. TWC leader Andrew Eade said: "This development is a demonstration of the council's confidence in the viability and vibrancy of Telford's business economy at a very difficult time for the national economy.

"We have carried out careful assessment of a number of different sites across the town centre and Southwater is undoubtedly the best location." TWC is working alongside the Homes and Communities Agency, Advantage West Midlands and Southwater Event Group - owner of the Telford International Centre - on the development proposals.