A MAJOR overhaul of a Colchester shopping centre has been unveiled.

Owners of Lion Walk want to pump more than £500,000 into replacing shop fronts and create a heritage trail to make Red Lion Yard more attractive.

A wall of light would also be created next to WH Smith to brighten up the yard while Red Lion Hotel will be given a fresh lick of paint.

Red Lion Hotel was bought by Sovereign Land this month after successful negotiations.

These latest plans were submitted to Colchester Council this week.

If they are given the thumbs up work will begin next year.

The refurbishment would take place in phases, allowing the existing stores and the hotel to continue to trade and access through to Lion Walk to remain open throughout the work.

As well as new uniform shop fronts, some of the smaller units would be combined to create larger spaces.

A heritage trail would be incorporated into new flooring, detailing Colchester’s history.

Colchester Council has final say and will make a decision by December 9.