IT's not often that we get excited about architects' daydreams but the various ideas that have been presented for Worcester's new university fill us with optimism.

At the moment, the Faithful City is attempting to find its feet in what are undoubtedly trying times. There has been much bad news on the jobs front - there may be worse to come - and the economy desperately needs the oxygen of Christmas to give it a boost.

But what of the long-term future? This newspaper is gradually coming round to the idea that the newly-fledged university will almost certainly play an important role in all our lives as the 21st Century progresses.

The bold image we display across our front page today more than hints of what a revamped Castle Street area might look like in the years ahead. Following the contours of one of Worcester's oldest inhabited areas, it is a daring vision for a cathedral city that desperately needs a shot of adrenalin.

Some residents are understandably nervous about Worcester becoming a university town. The lifestyles of youngsters and older people are often at odds, so a close watch must be kept on developments.

However, we believe that the positive will ultimately far outweigh the negative. Worcester will soon play host to youngsters not just from other parts of Britain, but also from across the world. We can see a transfusion of new blood, leading to a thriving economy and ever-burgeoning arts scene.

Early days, yes. But they are ones of hope, nevertheless.