ARCHITECTS are coming up with futuristic and eye-catching entries for a new market square at the heart of Newport.

The competition to design a new public space alongside the River Usk, called Market Square, was launched in January by the Royal Institute of British Architects on behalf of Newport council and regeneration company Newport Unlimited.

The top seven entries are on display at Newport Central Library - and include a garden built on a jetty jutting out into the River Usk, an urban pier with a wooden walkway over the water and leisure gardens alongside the river.

The public are now being given the chance to vote for the best design from the top seven entries.

Yesterday, people visiting the picture and graphics display were positive about the architects' visions.

Julie Jessop, 42, a nurse from Allt-yr-yn, said: "They're impressive and will give the city some pride.

"If you have a nice environment you have a better attitude towards where you live.

"At the moment the riverfront looks desolate."

A geography group, based at St Julians community learning and library centre, are following the progress of the Market Square development as part of their course.

The adult group, who have learning disabilities, thought the designs were original and would make the city centre more attractive.

Class teacher Angela Strickland, 40, said: "These are excellent. We've read so much about the project, it's really encouraging."

Student Adnan Ali, 25, said he wanted to see more open spaces and more trees in the area.

You can vote for one of the designs by filling in a form in the library. The entrants are anonymous until the competition is judged.

A decision will be made in early April, when the winner will receive £2,500, second place £1,500 and third place £750.

The project is the latest part in the city's massive £150 million redevelopment.