THE Redditch Renaissance has begun! It's a time of change for Redditch - new developments, new investment, new image and the Kingfisher Centre poised to be lifted back into the premier league of the UK's shopping centres.

The first dramatic transformation started on October 20 when work to demolish the old bus station and Kingfisher House began.

In less than two years, we can look forward to a superb new bus station, a new food hall, indoor market, a Wilkinsons store and lots more besides.

The exciting news that Debenhams is coming to Redditch has been welcomed across the town.

It will form the focal point of a prime new mall area and encourage other major stores into our town centre.

Work to build the two-level department store is set to begin early next year and will completely transform Royal Square and the area around it.

Shoppers will enjoy a much wider choice with Debenhams classic collections, exclusive clothing designers, cosmetics, accessories, a range of housewares and a restaurant on offer.

All this in addition to the excellent ranges available in the already well-established and successful Allders department store will put Redditch Town Centre firmly back on the map.

Our traditional open air market is also set to benefit from a new location and superb facilities as part of the overall plan to revamp the town centre and an ongoing programme of improvements already under way in the Church Green area will continue.

This is an exciting time for Redditch and we will keep everyone informed of new developments as they happen.

l Dates for your diary: Farmers Markets - October 28, November 25 and December 23.

Victorian Market - December 8/9.