Redditch residents can ‘virtually’ see what the new town centre will look like at a special event next weekend.

Using a virtual reality technology, visitors to the Kingfisher Centre can don special goggles which will let them walk round the new plaza, which can be viewed on a screen where they will be immersed in the images.

The system will let people walk from the site of the current library to the site of the proposed new facility, taking in landmarks like the John Bonham statue so they can see how the plans will enhance the area.

The Plaza makes up just part of the Town Investment Plan (TIP) which formed the basis of Redditch’s successful £15.6m bid of Government allocated Towns Fund with £4m of the pot going to this initial project.

Led by the Redditch Town’s Deal Board, made up of local businesses, residents and town representatives, including the Borough and County Councils, the TIP also includes development of a new digital manufacturing and innovation centre and public realm improvements.

Board Chairman and Redditch resident more than 60 years. Leigh Walton, said: “Even though the images we have shared with the public are detailed, the virtual reality experience will enable users to get their bearings and see for themselves how the plans fit together. They will be able to walk around the plaza and experience how it will link with the Kingfisher Shopping Centre and so improving the daytime and night times economies.”

The virtual reality information stand will be in a kiosk opposite WHSmiths on Friday December 16 and Saturday December 17 from 10am til 4pm and a representative from North Worcestershire Economic Development, which is carrying out the work on behalf of the Town’s Deal Board and the Borough Council, will also be on hand.

Redditch Borough Council Leader Matt Dormer said: “This multi-million pound project is often overshadowed by people who fear they will lose their library as part of these plans when in fact a new bigger and more accessible library would be created.

“I hope this virtual reality experience will attract the ‘silent majority’ of residents who will be able to see the bigger the picture of how we want to unlock Redditch’s potential and not just focus on one element."

“Led by the Town’s Deal Board we have successfully bid for this money which will be used to build a Redditch which will offer employment and leisure opportunities to our future generations. It should be celebrated so please come down to the Kingfisher and see for yourselves what the future could hold.”

If you have a go on the VR please take a photo and tag Redditch Borough Council on social media with #seethebiggerpicture #Redditch

For more information about the developments visit www.redditchbc.gov.uk/towncentre or www.redditchtowndeal.co.uk