Nottingham city leaders are putting plans in place to revamp a "tired-looking" area of the city centre in the hope of securing up to £15 million of investment.
A grant worth £150,000 has been secured by the city council to develop a business plan which will demonstrate how an area of Parliament Street could be transformed.
The cornerstone of the authority's plan to create "West End Point" would be a new and improved West End Arcade, which would aim to bring independent stores back to the area.
The scheme is one of 50 nationwide which has got through the first round of bidding for a share of the Government's £675m Future High Streets.
Nottingham City Council's portfolio holder for the city centre, Councillor Sam Webster, said: “Nottingham city centre is the leading shopping and leisure destination in the East Midlands, but like many retail areas, it has been under pressure from the rise of online shopping and a changing retail landscape.
"This grant is a positive signal of potential further investment.
"Adding to the existing developments that are already underway at Broadmarsh, Nottingham Castle, the Nottingham City Hub campus and along Carrington Street, this funding will help to keep Nottingham city centre growing and thriving.
“West End Point is the area between Angel Row, Upper Parliament Street and Market Street on the edge of , including West End Arcade.
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"This area is forecast to undergo a major redevelopment and this funding will help us realise that goal. The project so far has involved a huge input from stakeholders and the city council to create a new city centre vision.
"This will help us shape plans for huge improvements to this area which, subject to the Government granting up to £15m to carry out the work, will enable even more people to enjoy, live and work in the city centre."
Shoppers have also welcomed the plans to revamp the area, describing the potential investment as "positive" and "much needed".
James Lowton, a 29-year-old designer, of said: "I think it's a good move. The city centre needs as much investment as possible.
"The High Street needs as much help as it can get given today's economy and the way people shop."
Hannah Ives, a 23-year-old HR worker, of Keyworth, added: "I do think money needs to be spent here. It's tired-looking. I mainly shop in the and on Clumber Street and Bridlesmith Gate.
"If something similar can be done here then I think that could be exciting and will help the city and encourage more people in."
Kayleigh Arnold, 31, a beauty therapist, of , added: "It's great news to hear. This combined with the Broadmarsh revamp will help shopping in the city - which it needs."