A public consultation has launched in Neath, south Wales, for local residents and business to have their say over proposals for the £80m regeneration of the town centre.

Neath Port Talbot Council (NPTC) and developer Simons are working together on the redevelopment project, which is set to include a new library, new public squares and a new, iconic heritage centre. A planning application for the scheme is expected to be submitted in 2009, along with an environmental statement detailing the possible effects of the development. It is hoped that work can start in 2010, starting with a new multi-storey car park facility.

NPTC leader, Derek Vaughan, said: "We want to know what the public and local business think about the proposals. No final decisions will be made until we've gathered everyone's views." Simons development director, Mark Newton, added: "We are confident that the people of Neath will share in our vision to regenerate this key site. What we are proposing is to bring a whole new shopping and leisure experience to the town centre, which in turn will attract more visitors from the surrounding areas."

The consultation will run until 19 January.