A programme of improvement works have gotten underway in Falkirk town centre, which aim to improve the look and feel of the retail and transport hub area around Lint Riggs and Newmarket Street.

More than £800k from the Scottish Government's Town Centre Capital Fund will be invested by Falkirk Council in the works.

The project will bring to life the designs finalised following widespread community engagement and approved by Councillors in December 2019.

The aim of the project is to improve the safety and accessibility of the area, with McLay Civil Engineers undertaking the work on behalf of the Council.

Kerbs will be lowered to provide an open and accessible space for all, with 1,400m2 of pavement replaced with high-quality natural stone that is in keeping with the character and heritage of the town centre.

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Already one of the bus stops outside the supermarket has been removed to improve visibility at crossing points. To further enhance pedestrian safety, the steps between Upper and Lower Newmarket Street will be closed off.

Additional improvements to the environment will see 6 trees planted and the installation of new street lighting and planter seating areas.

Throughout the design process the Council has worked with the local community and businesses within the area to ensure the proposed changes meet need, and with McGill's on the layout of the improvements.

From 17 April, Upper Newmarket Street will close until further notice and bus services will be diverted while work is carried out. Information on diversions can be found at affected bus stops.

Pedestrian diversions may also be needed, but every effort will be made to keep these to a minimum. Access to premises will be maintained throughout the duration of the work, which is due to be complete in November.

Once complete, the improvement work will make the area safer, more welcoming and help the Council deliver on its priority of 'Supporting stronger and healthier communities'.

Councillor Paul Garner, Falkirk Council's spokesperson for Economic Development, said: "The improvement work will not only create a more inclusive, accessible and connected town centre but also totally transform one of the main arteries into the town and bring about tangible, positive change for those who visit, work and live in the area."