PUBLIC consultation on plans to regenerate Birkenhead and other areas of Wirral is due to take place later this year.

It follows the signing this week of legal agreements between Wirral Council and Muse Developments to form Wirral Growth Company.

The authority selected Muse as its preferred development partner for the 50:50 joint venture scheme, after a major competition, in March last year for a 10-year partnership.

Its plan for Birkenhead town centre features development of a new business district of grade 'A' offices, plus new retail and leisure space.

Alongside Birkenhead, the company also plans to bring forward schemes in areas of Bebington, Moreton and Bromborough.

Full public consultation is promised on the initial plans with events due to begin in May.

Council leader Cllr Phil Davies said: "This is a momentous occasion for the borough. Getting Wirral Growth Company officially off the ground, after months of detailed negotiations, is fantastic news for all our residents.

"We can now get on with the job of building the homes, offices and leisure developments which will transform our local economy and create thousands of opportunities for local people and businesses.

"I can't wait to get started."

Mike Horner, development director at Muse, said: "This is the first step of a long journey to bring high-quality development and sustainable, transformational regeneration to the peninsula.

"We look forward to further strengthening our partnership with the council, as well as engaging with residents, businesses and other stakeholders as plans progress."