A scheme to regenerate a quarter of central Oxford is presented today in a report expected to underpin the biggest redevelopment in the city since the war.

The report outlines how what it describes as the city's 'poor relation' can be transformed from an under-utilised backwater into Oxford's vibrant new West End during the next 10 years.

Four public squares are at the heart of the scheme along with the creation of a tree-lined Oxpens 'boulevard'.

The report was produced by consultants David Lock Associates, which was asked to produce a development framework for the West End by Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council and the South East England Development Agency.

Housing is seen as the key to the regeneration, with up to 1,200 homes proposed, half of which would be affordable. Land along the Castle Mill Stream is identified as ideal for residential development, with public access to the stream improved to make it a major city centre recreational attraction.

Much of the focus is on developing under-utilised land, including all the existing car and coach parks, to deliver the councils' vision of a new city area combining shops, offices, homes, cultural and leisure activities and transport routes.

The most dramatic improvement would come with a proposed new 'Oxpens Street'. The report says: "It currently sweeps through the area in racetrack fashion with few speed restrictions. Realignment of the road to remove the sweep would be the first step in changing its character.

It should then be designed as a boulevard with generous footpaths, trees and continuous active building frontages."

It is proposed that an Oxford Science Centre should be high on the list of high-profile cultural and leisure facilities to be located within the West End. But the consultants will cause widespread disappointment by coming out against the idea of a large-scale concert hall, or performing arts centre.

Alex Hollingsworth, city council leader, welcomed the consultants' report. He said: "We are committed to working with the county council in providing the residents of Oxford a new look for the city."

The report will go before both councils' executives next month.