The regeneration of Plymouth is moving a step closer with the visit of three American consultants to help draw up a new blueprint for economic growth.

The trio were being taken on a tour of the city on Tuesday to gain an understanding of its problems.

Plymouth is one of several cities around the UK chosen to develop a City Growth Strategy.

It has received funding from the Department of Trade and Industry to draw up a regeneration plan.

"Central strategy"

The South West Regional Development Agency is charged with delivering the new strategy.,

Alan Berry, the Agency's Devon enterprise manager says Plymouth has plenty of potential which they are working to unlock.

He said: "I am delighted that the American consultants have come to Plymouth to share their expertise.

"Plymouth is a city with lots of potential, however in the last few years it has faced many economic challenges.

"The aim of this initiative is to provide a central strategy to which all Plymouth's regeneration partners can work."

The consultants have been working on regeneration projects in American cities with similar economic problems.

They will be taken to see Plymouth's main regeneration sites, such as Millbay Docks and the Royal William Yard.