THE first stage of the �400,000 redevelopment of Royston’s Fish Hill Square began this week.

North Herts District Council is hoping to transform the area into a renewed civic space that can be used for various activities.

It is expected the work will take about three months to complete, and a number of improvements will be made to the area, including a better drainage system

Councillor Tom Brindley, NHDC’s portfolio holder for planning, transport and enterprise, said: “I want to thank everyone for their patience while this enhancement to the square takes place.

“Once the work is complete, the improvements will benefit everyone who lives and works in Royston, as well as visitors to the town.

“The work in Fish Hill Square has been funded by the Growth Area Fund, money that comes from central government to support this kind of project.

“We are confident that this enhancement to Royston town centre will lead to further investment in the town.”

New surfacing will be laid and seating installed, and towards the end of the works, a sculpture designed by Meridian School student Vicky Chapman will be unveiled in the square.

Contractors Maylim are working to ensure that disruption to residents, businesses, and visitors to Royston will be kept to a minimum throughout the scheduled 12-week period of work.

To ensure this happens the work will be streamed. However there will be no parking in the John Street car park once works commence, although people will still be able to access parking along the first part of Fish Hill, along Market Hill and High Street, and at the Market Hill car park.

But despite the reassurances of both NHDC and Maylim local business have not been won over by the plans.

The Crow previously spoke to a number of shops and salons located in and around Fish Hill with one claiming the works would signal the toughest period she has known in more than 20 years of trading.

But district councillor Tony Hunter says the project will ultimately benefit the town in the long run.

“I think it’s an excellent project for Royston and will make a big difference and solve quite a few of the drainage problems we have in that area,” he said.

“I’m aware of how it will affect local businesses and we will do everything in our power to ease their concerns.”

For a full schedule of work log on to www.north-herts.gov.uk