MULTI-MILLION pound proposals to transform an area of Southampton are to move a step forward.

Civic chiefs have confirmed they are planning to invest £30m to improve facilities at Bitterne precinct.

As previously reported, a state-of-the-art leisure centre, a library and health services could be created at the site.

But residents are set to be asked to have their say on what improvements they would like to see in Bitterne.

A consultation is expected to be run later this year as Southampton City Council said it will be looking to gather views from Bitterne residents on a range of topics including the current library and leisure provision, car parking, public transport, their use of the district centre, access to services and the quality of the surrounding environment and neighbourhoods.

It comes as the authority said plans for a community hub in Bitterne would aim to improve residents’ access to public services by combining health, leisure, library and other community support facilities in one location in the heart of the district centre.

Cllr Christopher Hammond, the leader of the council, said: "Bitterne Precinct is a much-loved centre and serves as a focal point in the east of the city. We will be conducting a big conversation with our residents on the future vision of the precinct and to find out what their priorities are.The conversations will begin with engagements starting in May on Southampton City Council’s proposed Bitterne Wellbeing Hub."

Cllr Hammond said the improvement will create jobs and boost the local economy.

He added: "The Hub would not only bring together upgraded public services with our library and leisure provision in one place, but act as an anchor on the high street, bringing increased footfall to this part of the city and give a much-needed boost to local business. This proposed investment shows our commitment to ensuring any recovery touches all parts of the city. I look forward to engaging residents on shaping a plan.”

The news comes as earlier this month the city council unveiled plans for a park and travel hub at Lances Hill Car Park.

The trial is expected to be launched later this year and aims to offer residents alternative transport.

Earlier this week, city leaders said the city is ready to "bounce back" as multi-million pound plans to transform the Leisure World site and the Bargate Quarter were approved.