A £300,000 project to improve a rundown shopping area in Witham has officially launched.

Braintree Council and Greenfields Community Housing have part funded the project in Spa Road, as well as using money from developers infrastructure investment.

Better lighting, a more attractive courtyard and a reworking of the existing car park layout to provide more spaces was granted planning permission last year.

Now work will begin with the clearing of trees and vegetation, before attention is turned to the light, car park and highways improvements.

All of the works should be complete by the end of the year.

Wendy Schmitt, councillor responsible for environment and place, said: "This area deserves some love and attention and I hope it will make a difference to residents, shoppers and parents picking up children from school.

"This work will make the area more accessible and will make it look better.

"It is inevitable that there will be some disruption while the works are ongoing but in the long term it will be worthwhile.

"I am keen for the new layout to attract more passing trade to the businesses here thanks to its location on one of the busy gateways into Witham.”

The council said it will work with Powers Hall School, businesses and nearby residents to minimise any disruption.

Residents were asked their views during a public consultation, and the feedback was used to influence the design proposals.

Witham Town Council also backed the plans to refresh what the public called a convenient but tired public amenity.

Diane Foley, head of neighbourhoods at Greenfields, said: "We want our residents to feel pride in where they live, and for local facilities to bring people together and help to improve lives.

"I am looking forward to seeing the results of this project and the difference it will make to the community.”

Visit www.braintree.gov.uk/sparoadshops.