The plans will transform Liverpool city centre's traffic system In detail

A multi-million pound plan to transform traffic flow in Liverpool city centre has been announced.

The council says the �73m proposal will have far-reaching changes on how traffic and pedestrians move in the city.

The public will now be consulted on the plans, with the aim being to complete the work by 2008 - in time for the city's Capital of Culture celebrations.

Under the plans several streets will be closed to traffic to create new pedestrian zones and allow the Merseytram system to pass through.

Some work has already started with improvements to street surfacing, street furniture and greenery.

'Vibrant' area

Councillor Peter Millea said: "This will have a dramatic impact on the look of the city centre and on how people move about whether they are travelling by car, public transport or on foot, and on access for disabled people.

"It is the biggest ever programme of works of this nature to take place in the city centre and aims to create a vibrant area."

He urged the public to get involved with the consultation process.

The plans have been developed by the council, Merseytravel, Liverpool Vision and Cityfocus.

Jim Gill, Liverpool Vision and Cityfocus chief, said their aim was "create a world-class environment fit for a European Capital of Culture".