PEOPLE have been urged to have their say on a multi-million pound waterfront development that would change the face of Worcester.

The long-awaited proposals to revamp Diglis Basin - which includes 459 homes, an on-site community centre and a gym - have gone on show to the public.

A park, which would stretch along the front of the River Severn, would include a footpath and cycleway linking to existing walkways.

The proposals, submitted by British Waterways and Taylor Woodrow Development, can be inspected until Tuesday, June 17.

City councillor Derek Prodger said it was no good people opposing the plans before viewing them.

"Will people please go and look at the plans and please let us have their observations" he said.

"From my view, any features are an asset. Look at what we've done by the Quayside. That's the sort of thing I want to see in Worcester."

But, Mary Dhonau, chairman of Worcester Action Against Flooding, said she was concerned that some of the 570 residential car parking spaces were on the flood plain.

"I do welcome the fact the development will enhance the look of the area, but if I had my way the area would have been given over to parkland."

Plans for the multi-million pound scheme were first submitted to the council in June 2002.

But after extensive consultation with local people and groups, they were withdrawn and a revised planning application for the 26-acre site was submitted to the council in April. Key changes were made, including a reduction in the number of houses and apartments, from 550 to 459, and an extension to the area of landscaped, public open space.

The plans can be seen at the city council's planning department, Orchard House, Farrier Street, from 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

People can access the council's website, which includes a layout plan and a land use plan, on www.cityofworcester.gov.uk or ring planning officer Jim Pithouse on 01905 722525 for further information.