NEW plans for Trinity Square went on show at the Cornerhouse, yesterday.
Visitors could catch the first glimpse of four proposals for the square, which was only rebuilt three years ago.
It is being redesigned after criticism which claims the current design is ugly and a poor use of public space. The new designs have been drawn up after a competition.
Stephanie Latham, 22, who lives in Rosebery Avenue, in West Bridgford, said her favourite was the design by Letts Wheeler. She said: "I like it because it proposes to use the space as a stage, which I think will increase the number of people using it."
She also complimented the greenery of the design by architects Gustafson Porter, which has leaves disguising the metal framework above the shops in the square.
"I like the green wall because it's environmentally friendly and fresh looking," she said.
Neil Porter, of Gustafson Porter, said that underneath the leaves was a lace mesh, which would be lit in different colours. He said: "We wanted to clean up the space and make it usable, we've re-graded the surface so it steps up the hill as a series of flat terraces."
Wollaton resident David Bradshaw also viewed the plans yesterday and said the city must learn from the lessons of the Old Market Square. He said it must be simple and easy to maintain.
The 71 year-old, who lives in Fylingdale Way, welcomed the competition. "I think the square's awful at the moment," he said. "It's bland, nobody knows what the blocks are, it's not a very inspiring theme."
He also favoured the Gustafson Porter design, adding: "It's simple, maintainable. It's quite classic, I like the green wall ."
The other two designs in the competition are by CPMG and Capita Symonds.
The four schemes can be seen on the top floor of the Cornerhouse until next Saturday, and they are expected to be published on the city council's website soon.
The winning scheme will be selected in early November and up to £500,000 has been set aside by the council to fund the project. The judges are led by planner and architect Les Sparks, who chaired the judging of the designs for the Old Market Square.
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