OXFORD could get its own version of the London Eye.

This is a suggestion from tourism bosses, who say a so-called 'Oxford Eye' in the city's West End would give visitors panoramic views of the Dreaming Spires.

It would be "similar" to the capital's giant Ferris wheel opposite the Houses of Parliament, they said.

A "viewing tower" or tethered hot air balloon are also options put forward by the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in its £44.5m plan to supercharge the county's offer to tourists.

The LEP has been drawing up projects with councils, tourism bodies and other organisations across the county and will bid for cash from the Government.

Chief executive Nigel Tipple said: "The programme we are pulling together looks at how a range of investments across culture and tourism can add value to the economy and also create a sense of place for people who live and work here.

"There are a variety of opportunities, but the details of the projects will be revealed at a later stage."

The LEP is poised to officially launch the new 'creativity, culture, heritage and tourism investment plan' at Blenheim Palace – one of Oxfordshire's top attractions – on Monday.

It suggests a "new visitor attraction" in Oxford to give people "a different view of the city and its surroundings", adding that it could be part of redevelopments already planned in the area.

Matt Peachy, Oxford City Council's economic development team manager, said: "This is an interesting proposal that has been looked at as a very early concept.

"Oxford is a city of Dreaming Spires and the question is whether there is an opportunity beyond what is already there to appreciate those views.

"It has not yet been taken further at this stage, but it is an idea.

"There are a number of issues and constrains that would need to be looked at first before something like this could be realistically delivered, but is worth looking at if it generates interest."

There are also proposals to establish an "Oxford Cultural Mile"similar to the one based around museums in London, expand Oxford Open Doors to cover the whole county and create a new visitor attraction called "The Oxfordshire Experience".

The £3m Oxfordshire Experience would use "innovative projection displays that are immersive, emotional, and dynamic", as well as "a 3D film that captures the iconic landmarks" and the county's most stunning landscapes.

Other previously announced schemes are also listed, such as the refurbishment of Modern Art Oxford, the expansion of the Story Museum and the pedestrianisation of Broad Street.

Commenting on the 'Oxford Eye' proposals, city council leader Bob Price said: "I am not sure it would be feasible or what it would add to the city.

"Our aim is not just to add more attractions, but to get people to stay longer.

"That involves having more affordable hotel space and developing packages for the county."

For information, visit oxfordshirelep.org.uk, where the plan will be published on Monday.