Plans for city's 'grand square'

An international design competition to transform part of the centre of Salisbury has been launched.

It aims to create a grand square to rival any in Europe to help the city compete against regional rivals like Southampton and Basingstoke.

The regeneration is part of Salisbury Vision which aims to shape the city's future for the next decade.

A council spokesman said the winning design would play a crucial role in helping the city prosper and grow.

Councillor Peter Edge added: "The aim is to create a grand square of the highest quality and design, a beautiful cosmopolitan space within the core of our medieval city where families and friends can linger in inspirational surroundings.

"What we envisage is a European-style cafe culture, with the medieval setting complemented by sensitive landscaping."

The council hopes the competition will attract entries from architects and landscape architects across the world.