French President Emmanuel Macron says he plans to hold a design contest for some of the stained-glass windows at the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

The landmark is set to reopen next year after suffering severe fire damage in 2019.

Macron visited the site on Friday to observe the reconstruction work. He climbed onto the scaffolding at the top of the cathedral's rebuilt spire.

Macron said the work is progressing as planned thanks to the efforts of architects from all over France.

He also said he will invite artists to design six contemporary stained-glass windows for the south side of the building. The old ones, dating back to the 19th century, will be stored elsewhere.

Macron said the new windows will symbolize the 21st century.

The French leader previously announced plans to redesign Notre Dame shortly after the blaze, but scrapped the idea due to opposition.

A woman in her 70s said France's excellent artisans will create wonderful stained-glass windows for the cathedral.

But another woman in her 20s says new designs will spoil the historic atmosphere.