Muirhouse Shopping Centre in the north of Edinburgh could be transformed into a new £26m civic centre.

Councillors will consider the plans, which would create 160 energy efficient homes, 13 retail units, new office space for local services and a new civic square, next week.

More than 90 of the new homes would be built specifically for older people, with lift access and a communal meeting space, to create a safe, secure and supportive environment and enable residents to remain in their home for longer.

A report will go before councillors on Thursday outlining the proposals for approval.

The new civic centre would be introduced on a phased basis over the next three to four years if it is given the go-ahead.

The project is part of one of Scotland's largest housing-led regeneration schemes, which included the construction of the new Craigroyston High School in 2010.

The area will become home to more than 2000 new residents and 180 workers over the next six to eight years.

Housing convener Cammy Day, said: "The Pennywell development is Scotland's largest housing-led regeneration scheme which captures what we're aiming for across the city - a range of affordable, energy efficient homes that are completed to the highest standard.

"We know there is a strong desire within the Pennywell and Muirhouse community to see the area transformed into a new 'civic heart' for the existing, new and emerging population.

"These proposals for a new local centre and community hub will make the area an attractive place where people wish to live, work and play and will serve future generations."