A RUNDOWN area of Preston will be transformed with contemporary art works for two months at the end of the year.

During November and December the area south of Church Street, from the back of the Minster and beyond, will get a contemporary art make-over.

One place earmarked for transformation with a public art piece is the Avenham multi-storey car park on Syke Street.

Although the exact nature of the art is being kept under wraps works will range from graffiti art and sculptures to live performances and video works.

Organisers say the project, called Generise, is intended to celebrate Preston's city status, and the spirit of renewal and stimulus for regeneration that its 'up-grade' has brought. They are hoping the works, by regional artists, will be a catalyst for larger, possibly permanent works in the future.

"It's a whole range of temporary art works that are intended to celebrate regeneration in Preston as a city, as well as connecting with the local community", said artist and project manager Andy Poole.

"The art works will be sited in a range of alternative spaces potentially reaching people who would otherwise not encounter this kind of work, as well as established audiences.

"Some pieces of art will be displayed outside and others will be inside buildings.

"We are consulting with local business at the moment to find more buildings for the works."

Four artists have been commissioned to create art works, and two community projects have also been commissioned.

The project is funded by Arts Council England Northwest, Lancashire County Council, Preston City Council, and the University of Central Lancashire.