Improvement works to Market Square in Stevenage are set to begin later this year, the borough council has promised.

Stevenage Borough Council says the plan is to make this area more attractive, safer for pedestrians, and offer greater visibility to the entrances of the indoor market and St George’s Car Park.

The plans include installing a new footpath with a raised pedestrian crossing and improved lighting, as well as introducing greenery, which the council says "will improve and brighten the area, creating a safer and visually improved crossing, whilst still providing designated loading bays for businesses who require deliveries and collections".

A council spokesperson continued: "Pedestrian safety is a priority and these works will create easy pedestrian movement and aid those with mobility issues.

"Two loading bays will be relocated, and there will be no loss of blue badge parking.

"In addition, and in keeping with underpass artworks already displayed or underway within the town, two large scale urban artworks will be introduced to add colour and vibrancy to the area. Hertfordshire-based artists MurWalls are working on designs to reflect the area."

Councillor Richard Henry, leader of Stevenage Borough Council, said: "This area is frequently used by pedestrians, including those visiting our much-loved indoor market.

"The space needs an upgrade and, by delivering these changes, we are ensuring that it remains safe, more easily accessible, and ties into the fabric of the surrounding areas with bright, colourful artworks.

"We have worked closely with surrounding businesses, including within the indoor market, and will continue to work in collaboration whilst these works are delivered."

The project is being funded by the Stevenage Development Board through national government’s Towns Fund, of which Stevenage received £37.5m in March 2021.

Chair of the Stevenage Development Board, Adrian Hawkins OBE, said: "The Stevenage Development Board, with its successful Towns Fund bid, is working to strategically improve facilities for the public and businesses in the town, and ensuring that the government funding is fully utilised in the most appropriate areas to provide maximum benefit for all parties."