SIXTEEN weeks of hard work and disruption ended when the new-look Worcester Road in Bromsgrove was officially re-opened by the town's Tory MP Julie Kirkbride and district council chairman, Mike Gill.

The road, which has had a £250,000 facelift, attracted spectators when it officially opened for business again last Wednesday.

Council leader Cllr Nick Psirides (Con, Norton) said: "The new look Worcester Road has enhanced the area for both pedestrians and motorists alike."

Over 40 councillors and council officers were at the opening ceremony.

It is hoped the facelift will boost business for traders throughout Bromsgrove.

Miss Kirkbride thanked everyone who had been involved in the project.

She said: "This is a super, super job.

"Hopefully this investment will attract new shops into Bromsgrove."

The busy thoroughfare now has five new speed platforms and a zebra crossing.

The footpaths have been widened and an area has been dedicated for a loading bay and new taxi rank.

There is new street lighting, bollards and litter bins. Trees will be planted this autumn.

Cllr Gill said: "This is a long overdue job since the completion of the pedestrianisation of the High Street in the 1970s."