A CITY councillor has called for, “a marker in the sand” for the completion of the Silver Hill development.

The multi-million-pound city centre revamp was discussed during a progress report of the Central Winchester Regeneration Supplementary Planning Document (SPD).

Cllr Ian Tait said at the town forum: “The number of people who ask me, ‘when will something happen, what is the timescale?’

“People are still interested in having some firm idea to see when we will see the scheme built out.”

In response, corporate director Steve Tilbury said: “It would be premature to give a date.”

When asked by if it would take a minimum of five years, he replied: “We are not expecting development to take place sooner than that.”

Cllr Rose Burns said: “We need to get it right this time. We have every confidence in JTP (consulting the public on the SPD).

“I think I am afraid people have to be patient for a little while longer.”

The city council is attempting to resurrect the redevelopment following its collapse last year JTP’s launch will be on February 10, then a community planning weekend will be on March 24-25 will be set aside for workshops and sessions for people to put forward their ideas.

The £150 million redevelopment involving flats and shops was hugely controversial, sparking major demonstrations including a 1,000-person march in 2015.

JTP will launch the exercise on February 10, with the roadshow in the week beginning March 6.

The community planning weekend will be March 24-25 and JTP will report back on April 4-5.