A SCHEME to transform an eyesore in Winchester into a new caf plaza could still be on the cards, despite fears the council had vetoed the scheme.

Traders in St George's Street want to see the cobbled area known as Casson's Block transformed into a new open space complete with space for chairs and tables.

Tom Romita, who owns the Winchester News shop, has been campaigning for the City Council to invest in the area in a bid to encourage shoppers and visitors to the street.

The plans for Casson Block would see new seating areas and a water wall built to create a focal point for shoppers.

The scheme would also involve moving the existing fountain and putting in ramps, paving and planting to create a new public area for the city.

However, late last week Mr Romita said Winchester City Council told him they were rejecting the plans on the grounds that it would cost too much and would not see enough of a financial return.

Mr Romita said: "We need to spend money in this city in order to attract new visitors and customers.

"I think it's short-sighted for the council to just reject and refuse the plans, and they should have spent more time looking at the economic and social benefits the scheme would have brought to St George's Street."

Another person who thinks the proposals are worth considering is Pete Castle, 33, an IT worker from nearby Parchment Street.

He said: "I've lived in this part of the city for ten years and the Casson Block area doesn't fit in with the rest of the city.

However, a Winchester City Council spokeswoman said: "As far as I'm aware the plans have-n't been dismissed and, in fact. a financial feasibility study is currently being looked at to see how much the scheme might cost."

She added that a report into the plan would be produced later this year.