ALMOST one year after it started, and nearly six months overdue, work which promised to transform Redditch town centre is set to come to an end.

The £880,000 work, which aimed to transform Alcester Street as well as parts of Grove Street, Peakman Street, Church Green East and Market Place, should be completed by January 31.

The work started in March and was supposed to finish last August but has been beset with delays.

The works include resurfacing a large amount of the town centre, new street furniture, signage, and the cleaning and rehoming of planters and street lights.

Included is a new one-way system for authorised vehicles in the town’s pedestrian zone, and changes to the parking bays on Church Green East.

As well as updating the tired and dated area the aim was to provide a safe and attractive place where people want to visit, shop and spend time.

However, the work has seen major disruption with a number of businesses, market traders, and residents voicing concerns about the length of time it has taken to complete.

Worcestershire County Council bosses said local residents and businesses were consulted to minimise any issues.

Cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure – councillor Ken Pollock said: "Due to unforeseen delays, caused by shallow services, we are now on track to finish the entire project by the end of January."

He added: "We've worked around people as they shop and visit the town centre in order to minimise disruption as much as possible. The improvements we are carrying out will make a positive difference to shoppers and businesses in the future."

The scheme has been funded by £350,000 from Redditch Borough Council and £530,000 from Worcestershire County Council.

At the start of the work Redditch Borough Councillor Greg Chance, whose portfolio covers regeneration and economic development, admitted there would be "some short-term disruption" but it needed doing to get a cleaner, safer, and better-looking town centre.

*What do you think - do you think the area looks better after the revamp or the same? Can you see any difference?

Let us know by emailing ben.russell@midlands.newsquest.co.uk.