RESIDENTS and shoppers are being urged to attend a public event which will explain how their lives will be affected when work begins on the £30million regeneration of Braintree town centre.

Preliminary work is already underway along Manor Street but there is expected to be disruption once major construction gets underway in March.

The contractor in charge of the scheme, Kier Regional Building Eastern, is hosting a public exhibition next week which will explain the changes being brought in for residents, bus passengers and visitors affected by the work.

Information on alternative car parking, temporary bus stops and changes to the flow of traffic will all be available at the drop-in event, which is being held at the town hall.

A schedule outlining when construction works are taking place will be available, along with will floor plans for the new residential and commercial units planned.

Kier managing director Mark Dady said: “We are specialists in delivering key projects for local authorities nationwide. We work extremely hard to leave a positive footprint on the areas we work in and throughout this project we will be committed to engaging with the local community and working closely with local subcontractors to create a range of job opportunities for those living in the area.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with the council to deliver this vital project for the people of Braintree.”

Braintree Council corporate transformation boss John McKee said: “The Manor Street regeneration will generate jobs, bring new health facilities, homes and better transport links into town.

“As with all major building projects, however, the build phase may cause some disruption at first which is why we’re encouraging people, especially those living and working around Manor Street, to drop in to this event – ask questions, be informed and reassured about the works and arrangements planned over the coming few months.”

Once complete, the Manor Street regeneration scheme will create 35 new flats, a health centre, 70-bed Travelodge hotel, new bus interchange, café and a twin level car park.

Council bosses say it is expected to bring in an extra £3.4m to the local economy each year and will create more than 100 new jobs.

The exhibition takes place on Thursdat, January 16, at Braintree Town Hall between 4pm and 7pm.