Ambitious plans to regenerate Ipswich town centre have been given a boost with further details unveiled about the redesign of the Cornhill.

The project arose after last year’s second Beacon Ipswich conference, organised and backed by The Star, at which Ipswich took up a challenge from retail guru Sir Stuart Rose to transform the heart of the town centre to welcome more visitors.

A partnership of Ipswich Borough Council, Ipswich Central and Ipswich MP Ben Gummer then linked up with Suffolk County Council and University Campus Suffolk to take the project forward. Sir Stuart agreed to become an adviser to the partnership.

Architects were asked earlier this year to tender for the Cornhill redevelopment design work and a shortlist of five has now been selected.

The public can view these ideas and give their opinion on the future of the Cornhill at an event on Tuesday, July 2.

The event will be held in the council chamber of the Town Hall between 4pm and 6pm.

Councillor David Ellesmere, Ipswich Borough Council’s leader, said: “This is a major project dealing with the future of the centre of Ipswich. Our five selected architects will be on hand to talk to people about what they might like to see on a reinvigorated Cornhill.

“This project is still in its early stages but public views are essential before we go any further.”

Paul Clement, Ipswich Central chief executive, added: “This is one of the most important projects for Ipswich town centre for many years. We will not be forgiven if we limit our ambition and go safe. Let’s think big and find out what’s possible.”

The five architects must submit plans by August 23. A winning design will be selected in mid-September.