Work to begin on £4m town square improvement

Work will begin later this month to improve Bedford's St Paul's Square

Regeneration plans worth £4.98m to improve a town square are set to begin.

Work to refurbish St Paul's Square in Bedford will begin on 17 February and is expected to be completed in early December.

Bedford Borough Council said the work would "create a more vibrant and attractive destination".

Andrea Spice at the council said the plan was a "vital part of our vision" for the town.

The project includes replacing paving slabs and kerbs, widening pedestrian walkways and creating a space for outdoor events.

It will also better connect the Cultural Quarter, Riverside Bedford, Silver Square and the High Street.

Work has been scheduled in phases and while there will be some road closures, the council said it would work with businesses to make access available.

"We are thrilled to be moving forward with the refurbishment of St Paul's Square, this project is a vital part of our vision for Bedford town centre, creating a more welcoming space for all to enjoy," Spice said, who is the portfolio holder for economic growth, planning and prosperity at the council.

She encouraged residents and visitors to continue to visit the area while work was ongoing.