IMPROVEMENT work in a market square has been branded legal vandalism.

The work at the foot of Trinity Church Tower, in Richmond, was carried out by Richmond Swale Valley Community Initiative (RSVCI).

New features include a timeline with a snake-like representation of the River Swale and brass plaques containing historic facts, a town trail map and new benches.

The project was designed to improve the area and provide more seating for visitors.

But speaking at a meeting of Richmond Town Council this week, Councillor Stuart Parsons described the scheme as an embarrassment.

He said: "It used to be a pretty part of the town, but we have just seen it totally destroyed -it has been legally vandalised.

"There is a very ugly representation of the River Swale and the town trail points in the wrong direction.

"It is legal destruction of heritage assets."

Coun Clive World said he was concerned that the brass plaques were already looking scuffed and that the benches appeared to be going rusty.

He said: "The brass plaques are slippy. I am worried about health and safety and who is going to be responsible if there is an accident.

"We need to ask questions of RSVCI."

However, some councillors defended the scheme.

Coun John Harris said: "There has been no recognition of the very positive approach to enhance this area."

Coun Tom Burrows added that two people told him the new area was wonderful. He said: "There are those who hate it and those who like it."

In response to the criticism, RSVCI's town manager Colin Grant said yesterday that the work had greatly improved the area.

He said: "People are entitled to their opinions. The plans were drawn up by a local architect over two years ago.

"Everybody, including the town council, was fully consulted.

"The intention was to increase the amount of seating in the areas as, in the summer in particular, visitors to the town previously had to sit on the pavement.

"The scheme has doubled the amount of seats. It has also created something of interest that celebrates the history of the town and will encourage people to visit attractions such as Easby Abbey, the theatre and the castle."

The town council will invite a representative of RSVCI to its next meeting to discuss the work.