The City of Vancouver is about to take the next step in remaking the block of Robson Street behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Today, the city released its high-level design concept for a plaza that will be built there. (See image above.)

According to a city news release, the goal is to create a "flexible and adaptable space" that can accommodate many uses.

Council will hear a staff presentation on the concept on Wednesday (December 14).

"The design for the plaza will be integrated into the surrounding street network through improvements to the 700 and 900 blocks of Robson Street towards Burrard and Granville Streets, and along Hornby Street towards Smithe and West Georgia streets," the city news release stated. "Levelling the street, defining the block ends, and improving the connection with adjacent blocks and intersections will create a consistent base upon which additional details will be added."

The overall cost is $6.5 million, including improvements to the neighbouring blocks.

Construction is expected to begin next year.