Architects' models of the proposed regeneration plans for the 18th-century landmark and the Square Chapel Centre for the Arts have been put on show in the Piece Hall art gallery.

The scheme to renovate the Grade I-listed building is being backed by the Courier. The work will form the centrepiece of Halifax's regeneration efforts.

It will also involve improvements being made to the railway station, the Shay and the Broad Street leisure and retail centre.

Visitor services support assistant Peter Leng said: "We've had people coming in and taking an interest in the models and taking leaflets away with them."

Under the plans the Piece Hall would be transformed into a bustling town square, with a stunning water feature in the centre of the continental-style piazza.

In September, the first application for £7 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund was submitted.

The next stage of the project, between March 2010 and August 2011, will be a project development period, including more public consultations.

Fund-raising will also begin during this time.

The second stage of the lottery bid will be submitted in September 2011, with the tendering process, including picking an architect, taking place between March and August 2012.

If the £16 million is raised in time, the building will close to the public in October 2012 for the conservation and construction works to begin.

The building is then expected to be formally reopened in May 2014.

The models show a planned covered entrance to link Square Chapel and the Piece Hall.

The arts centre would also benefit, with money being spent on a second auditorium to run workshops and events including cinema screenings.

It is hoped the plans will regenerate the town centre and boost visitor numbers.

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