A national expert on city centre redevelopment is to work with Oxford city and county councils to drive forward plans to revamp the city's 'West End'.

John Walker, who advised the Government on its Sustainable Communities Plan, has agreed to work on the project to extend Oxford's historic core to the south western part of the city centre. The aim is to transform it into a space for culture and recreation, as well as improving public transport and creating new shops and homes.

A new retail area is planned between a relocated railway station and a new Westgate Shopping Centre.

The project also includes plans to turn the Town Hall into a modern civic centre and for the redevelopment of the Central Library and Apollo Theatre.

Mr Walker said: "Turning the councils' aspirations into a reality will need a sensitive but confident approach.

"Our aim is to produce a more detailed vision which involves and is appreciated by the people who live and work here."

He will be joined by local property consultant Giles Charrington, who added: "Working in Oxford as I do, I know very well the many exciting developments planned or already under way in the western area of the city.

"It's vital that these developments are part of a well thought-out and co-ordinated plan."

The consultants are being paid by the two councils.