WORK to transform Bromsgrove High Street, costing around £2 million, is set to get underway next month.

And Bromsgrove District Council say the scheme, part of the town’s wider regeneration project, should be completed in 2013.

Funding for the new-look High Street was first agreed by the district council and Worcestershire County Council in 2010.

The design is still being finalised, but among the key priorities identified are the need for extra space, an improved surface for visitors to walk on, and better access to shops.

The layout of the market stalls and lighting of the street, including seasonal decorations at Christmas, will also be improved, with the aim to provide a better shopping experience.

A total overhaul of street furniture, including benches and railings, has also been discussed as part of the scheme.

The first stage of planned improvements will see trees in the area between the Housman Statue to George House removed.

The council say the trees are either slowly deteriorating, blocking CCTV cameras due to their location, or are causing problems for shoppers trying to access buildings and shops.

The tree removal plans will go before Bromsgrove planners on February 6 and, if agreed, work will take place between February 7-March 5.

Town businesses and market traders in the area are to be informed, but the council expect there not to be any disruption to the street market, or shops' opening arrangements.

Worcestershire County Councillor Anthony Blagg, whose Bromsgrove Central ward includes the High Street, said although it was sad to see the existing trees removed, plans for the new-look street included new trees.

Coun Blagg added: “The regeneration of High Street will improve the experience for residents, thus attracting more shoppers into the area which will inevitably provide retailers and market traders with a much needed boost.”

Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio holder for the town centre, Councillor Del Booth, said: "The regeneration partnership is going to take this once-in-a-generation opportunity to rethink the layout, remove decades of clutter, make shops more accessible to everyone, and further improve the markets.

“The design is still being considered and will soon be subject to consultation.

“In the meantime, a number of works required to prepare the ground are set to be carried out, including drainage and tree works, which will all help build a better Bromsgrove."