The controversial proposal is part of a masterplan for the regeneration of the city.

More than 1,400 people attended a three-day exhibition at the Shires Shopping Centre in Leicester and left their comments with the Leicester Regeneration Company.

But 69 per cent of people were against plans to move the 800-year-old market, which has just been revamped.

Leisure facilities

Officials say the plans were generally supported - with people being particularly keen to see the waterfront around Frog Island linked with the city centre and to have the shopping area developed.

They say people also suggested other things they wanted improving including transport and leisure facilities.

But a large majority rejected the idea of relocating the market.

Final plans

This is the first stage of the public consultation which continues until November when the final plans will be unveiled.

The Leicester Regeneration Company is a not-for-profit organization which wants to make the city centre more attractive to businesses and public.

The company was established in April 2001 to secure the comprehensive physical regeneration of 400 hectares of the city.