IMPROVEMENT works in The Shambles and Church Street have begun this week.

The work follows the completion of major works carried out in the area by Severn Trent Water.

The scheme is being delivered by Worcestershire County Council in partnership with Worcester City Council, which is jointly funding the project.

Cllr Ken Pollock, county cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: “I’m delighted that work is beginning on this scheme to improve The Shambles and Church Street.

“The planned works will significantly improve this historic area of Worcester City and will also complement the improvements made in other areas of the city over the last few years.

“It is another example of our Town Centre Improvement Programme which has been successful in other areas of the county.”

Cllr Adrian Gregson, vice chair of the city’s place and economic sub committee, said the work “will help to ensure that The Shambles continues to be a vibrant place which people want to shop, visit and socialise in.”

“We apologise for any disruption caused while the works are underway,” he added.

The scheme aims to deliver an attractive multifunctional and durable area of the city centre.

It also aims to improve footfall to the street and in turn, boost the local economy.

Included in the scheme are plans to resurface the footways and road, introduce segregated loading bays for delivery vehicles, the planting of trees, improvements to furniture and upgrade lighting.