MORE than 20 architects are set to battle for the right to design Winchester's new-look station area.

Practices from across the country have expressed interest in the city council's Station Approach scheme, which will transform the area with offices, parking, flats, shops and public space.

Cllr Stephen Godfrey, leader of Winchester City Council, said: "We are delighted by this substantial level of interest in helping us bring much-needed improvements to Station Approach.

"The scale and quality of submissions gives us confidence that we will be able to choose a design team who can deliver a scheme of which the city can be proud."

Civic chiefs have faced criticism from the respected City of Winchester Trust for launching the design competition without a 'masterplan' for the area.

Twenty-two firms "large and small" have formally expressed interest in the contest, the council has said, with some based locally.

Those on a shortlist to be compiled in the next fortnight will be invited to submit outline plans. Entries will be narrowed down by a panel including Tina Frost, an independent adviser from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Residents will get their first look at designs at a public exhibition after bidders submit their 'best and final offers'.