A retail and leisure development in Lichfield is to be given a £2.66m government grant to revitalise the city's Birmingham Road area, if revised plans are approved by councillors.

The vision for Friarsgate, supported by Staffordshire County Council, is to redevelop the Lichfield City Bus Station element of the plans, which is a major part of the overall scheme.

The planned project would feature retail, food, a cinema and housing in a contemporary city setting that is sensitive to the historic character of Lichfield, and its current retail offering.

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The development will extend the city centre and provide routes through to the bus and rail stations, as well as a link to the Three Spires shopping centre. When complete, the development is set to create up to 750 jobs and contribute £211m to the local economy over the next decade.

Philip Atkins, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: "Staffordshire has stepped up to the challenge and is on a roll in terms of our delivery of projects which will have a major impact on long-term economic growth and job creation.

"Today's announcement means people in Lichfield and the surrounding areas can look forward to regeneration and greater employment and leisure opportunities.

"This is a major development for the city and will enhance its reputation as a leading location to live, work and visit. The expansion of our Growth Deal is further recognition by the Government of our commitment to create employment and our ability to get the job done where major projects are concerned."

(CD/JP)