WORK to improve a struggling high street is due to start in October.

Changes are being made to the layout of North Road, in Durham, to improve the look of the area and make it easier and safer for pedestrians.

Durham County Council says the work is expected to take 21 weeks and will see road and pavement improvements and the realignment of a section of North Road with the junction at Milburngate. The taxi rank and loading bay will also be repositioned.

When businesses in the road were asked whether they wanted the work done following the completion of major roadworks at Leazes Bowl and Gilesgate roundabouts or whether it should be delayed until next year, almost three quarters asked for it to start in October.

Cllr Neil Foster, cabinet member for economic regeneration and culture, said: “North Road will now be the first phase of our plans to improve paths and roads across the city, making them easier to access and hopefully making Durham City even more beautiful.

“It’s impossible to carry out major works without causing some disruption so it’s great to know that the businesses in the area support the plan and are keen for the improvements to be carried out as soon as possible.”

Adam Deathe, business engagement manager for Durham Business Improvement District [BID] said: “I think it’s a great opportunity for North Road. North Road businesses have felt unloved for a little while. It’s an area which is very important to the city because of the bus station and access from the train station but it hasn’t had the investment other areas have had.”

“It’s very welcome that investment is being brought forward rather than backwards.”

He added: “The plans should make the area work more effectively for businesses and buses and pedestrians.

“I’m aware that the council has aspirations for the whole of North Road and once that is complete in two or three years time it really will be quite something. This is the first step to seeing that plan delivered.”

Plans to regenerate the area were first revealed in 2014 when proposals to get rid of North Road roundabout and replace the bus station with a new facility, were unveiled.

A council spokesperson said it was planning to release further details about the bus station next week.