A multi-million pound redevelopment scheme is set to be approved by council leaders in Derby.

Part of the present Eagle shopping centre will be bulldozed to make way for a new �200m extension.

Councillors hope the plans will provide a huge boost to the local economy.

Developers Westfield want to transform the 1960s arcade into a 21st Century mall.

The old arcade dates from the 1960s

Councillor Sarah Bolton said: "It's the biggest planning application we have received in the city since the 1970s.

"Not only is this an indication of the way in which people are thinking of the city, it is a definite vote of confidence in the way Derby is developing and progressing."

The only part of the old precinct which will survive the development is a popular bronze statue of the Derby ram.

Derby City Council's planning committee has been recommended to approve the plans when it meets on Thursday evening.