Town centre revamp given go-ahead

Level access will be created at St Editha's Square in Tamworth (artist's impression)

Plans for a regeneration project in Tamworth town centre have been given the go-ahead.

St Editha’s Square will see improved accessibility by removing the steps to bring about an even surface, the borough council said.

It added the scheme would include landscaping and benches, to form a "high-quality and relaxing space".

The project is part of a wider programme of regeneration, which the local authority said would preserve the character and appearance of the conservation area around St Editha’s Church.

Tamworth was awarded more than £21m from the government’s Future High Streets Fund to transform the town centre.

Other aspects of the wider scheme includes converting the former Co-operative building on Colehill into an enterprise centre and renovations on Middle Walk to provide a mixed-use building for small businesses.

In addition, the restoration of a series of empty properties on Market Street is expected to start before Christmas.

"I'm especially looking forward to seeing the new St Editha’s Square take shape and become an open space that the public can enjoy," said council leader Carol Dean.

"There is a lot going on as part of these projects, but Tamworth town centre remains very much open for business, with St Editha’s Square and Middle Entry shops open throughout."

She said discussions were ongoing with market traders to find them temporary alternatives while the work was carried out.

"We're keeping the public, local businesses and market operators updated with all our plans and any street or road closures," Ms Dean added.

"We aim to minimise disruption to town centre businesses the best we can."