A major new heritage centre and tourist attraction is poised to be created in Guildford, Surrey, under proposals approved by the local authority.

Guildford Borough Council's (GBC) executive committee has given the green light for a public consultation to be held into the project, along with the preparation of a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) bid. The council is set to bid for around £1m HLF funding towards the scheme, although an additional £2m would be required - £250,000 poised to come from the council.

Under the proposals, an enhanced museum would be created with an entrance from the castle grounds into a new reception area, café and exhibition gallery within the castle ruins. Two floors of the town's Castle Arch House would be opened to visitors to provide accessible facilities and displays, as well as education space for activities and events.

GBC lead councillor for people and partnership Jen Powell said: "Although in its early stages, this is an exciting opportunity to develop the museum - which has been relatively unchanged since the 1960s - and the castle into a major heritage hub and tourist destination. "As well as preserving our heritage for the future we will boost community involvement with increased learning and participation including public events and activities."