Plans for a new 15-hectare (37.1-acre) mixed-use development, which will result in the creation of a new business quarter for the centre of Coventry, are to be put to the city council's Development Forum.

Friargate Coventry, which is the development vehicle for Cannon Cannon Kirk, is behind the office-led scheme, and also includes two new hotels, restaurants, bars and retail units. The project also includes new public spaces, as well as the expansion and upgrade of Greyfriars Green conservation area. A 'first look' event has already taken place in order to allow local stakeholders and residents to view the development proposals, which has been designed by architects Allies and Morrison, although a further public consultation is expected to be held before a planning application is submitted.

Rodney Pilcher of Friargate Coventry said: "We have been working in conjunction with Coventry City Council for a number of years to bring about this extensive and strategic development opportunity. "Coventry has the opportunity for a high-quality business hub to encourage more companies to relocate to the area and to enable existing businesses to expand. Being located next to Coventry train station, this site is perfectly placed to create a vibrant new office-led community."

Coventry City Council's cabinet member for city development, Gary Ridley, added: "The development will seek to create impressive links between the new Friargate development and the city centre and we will work closely with the developers to ensure we get a quality and viable scheme for the benefit of the people of Coventry. "This development proposal demonstrates that investors still believe in the future of our city, even during these difficult economic times."