BRAINTREE is bracing itself for a busy 2021 where a two multimillion pounds projects will give the town a fresh new look.

Both the town centre pedestrianisation and Manor Street regeneration schemes are due to be completed in 2021, with the former just weeks away from finishing.

New paving has now been installed in the lower end of Bank Street and council bosses say construction work on High Street will be finished in January.

Contractors will then move onto the next phase of the £3million project - upgrading Market Place and Great Square.

Along with a new surface, new street furniture, trees, extra CCTV, cycle storage and wifi will all be installed.

The council’s economic boss Tom Cunningham, who has been spearheading the project, said: “It’s exciting to see the progress being made on the scheme and I’m sure many residents and businesses, like myself, are looking forward to seeing the final look in the new year.

“Our ambition is to create a safe, flexible and social space which can be adapted and used to host community events, markets and social activities in the future.

“These attractions will draw more people into our town centre, generating more trade for shops, restaurants and other local businesses.”

The £30m regeneration of Manor Street and Victoria Street is also due to finish in 2021, with council bosses say the scheme remains on course to be completed in the autumn.

A new Travelodge hotel, health centre, flats, cafe, bus interchange and two-storey car park are all being built behind the library.

Work on refurbishing the old Drill Hall has started and the main building where the hotel will be based has reached three floors in height.

The council’s corporate transformation boss John McKee said: “Our strategic investments are attracting new businesses into the area, creating quality employment opportunities and providing residents with homes, services and much needed health facilities.

“We are moving at pace in creating opportunities which will have a positive impact on our communities for many years to come.

“We are also creating the financial returns necessary so that we can continue to invest in our frontline services.”