ONE of the borough's "most neglected areas" is set to undergo a major revamp.

Hither Green could soon be home to a sea of plush cafes, bars and tree-lined roads thanks to a new regeneration project.

The plans, currently the subject of a six-month public consultation exercise, could also see the east Lewisham outpost get its own New York-style plaza.

The Hither Green Urban Design and Development Strategy has been developed by the council, businesses and residents.

Lewisham Council says its aim is to "promote positive change" by encouraging development and private investment in the area.

The strategy includes a public consultation process, with regular meetings between residents, traders and councillors.

Ideas discussed so far include plans for the area next to Hither Green Station, Staplehurst Road, to be transformed into a public square.

This would include a host of new cafes and bars complete with outdoor seating areas.

The pavements on Hither Green Lane could also be widened to allow space for extra trees.

Lewisham Central councillor Andrew Milton attended the last meeting and says the plans are "very positive".

He said: "For many years Hither Green has been a neglected area of Lewisham and does not receive as much funding as other places.

"The square is a great idea. At the moment dining here is a bit like a smash-and-grab exercise."

Cllr Milton added: "We need somewhere for people to linger and enjoy a coffee."

Earlier this year residents in Staplehurst Road scooped a top prize in the London in Bloom contest for their efforts to make their street greener.

Lewisham deputy mayor Councillor Gavin Moore says the urban design framework will "build on this success".

He added: "The development strategy will help attract private investment to bring about wider improvements in Hither Green."

The consultation process ends on December 30.

Consultants will then produce a report, outlining their vision for the future.