PLANS to transform a Southampton precinct into a major new shopping centre will be unveiled tomorrow at a public exhibition.

Property developer Storegap Commercial Ltd believes Shirley Precinct has the potential to be one of the city's top shopping venues.

Its proposals include a supermarket and 266-space car park, a new library and a housing office, an option for ancillary shopping facilities and residential properties.

Shirley Precinct has been identified in Southampton City Council's Local Plan Review as an area for development as a mixed-use scheme.

Storegap director Tony Cook said: "Storegap's vision is that the new precinct will meet with the council's expectations for the area by providing improved retail facilities and a wider choice of shopping as well as the enhancement of the general environment for shoppers along Shirley High Street."

No definite plans have been agreed. Any concrete plans would need to be devised by a commercial developer or supermarket operator and put before council planning chiefs.

Storegap has also produced a leaflet with a pre-paid response card, giving people the opportunity to comment on the proposals. Residents close to the precinct will also be receiving copies informing them of the exhibition and leaflets will be available at the exhibition.

The Shirley area does not have a large supermarket and Storegap believes it forces a lot of potential custom away.

The plans are sure to prompt a mixed reaction from existing local traders.

Shirley councillor Paulette Holt said: "I have spoken to many residents and traders on this issue who are concerned about traffic noise and the loss of housing to shops.

"I will be very interested to see Storegap's plans but I think it will need a further public meeting at a later date to get locals views across."

The plans can be seen at Unit 8, Redcar Street, Shirley, tomorrow, Friday and Saturday.