This is how the centre of Macclesfield could look in 2015 as plans for the £100m redevelopment of the town centre move closer.

A planning application has now been submitted by developers Wilson Bowden for the regeneration of an area to be known as ‘Silk Street’.

The 250,000 sq ft scheme includes a new town square, department store, high street shops, a cinema, restaurants and a new multi-storey car park. Plans were first unveiled in June last year, sparking widespread criticism.

Many people claimed the scheme was too big and didn’t reflect Macclesfield's heritage.

After nine months refining and modifying the proposals with Cheshire East council, Wilson Bowden have come back.

However, plans are now much smaller in size with several key changes. Areas originally part of the plan such the triangle on Park Green, Dukes Court and the area from Castle Street to Exchange Street, are no longer included.

But the new plans do include additional car parking on the current Water Street car park, alongside the new multi-storey car park off Churchill Way.

The focal point in the new plan is a town square on the site of existing Exchange Street car park in front of the Heritage Centre.

This will be linked to the existing thoroughfare on Mill street by a new Silk Street shopping area. Earmarked as green space in early plans, the area in front of the Heritage centre will now largely be made up of concrete and raised flower beds.

Patrick Arthurs, Planning Director at Wilson Bowden Developments said: “We have worked closely with our partners and key stakeholders to develop a scheme that will meet the future demands of retailers in the town centre.”

“We are really excited at this major step forward and are confident that Silk Street will play its part in the wider vision for Macclesfield Town Centre. ”

A formal consultation period will begin with a decision on the scheme expected later this year.

The plans will be available to view at the Macclesfield Town Hall and on the council’s website.

Wilson Bowden will also be holding briefing sessions with stakeholders and residents.