FAR-REACHING new plans have gone on display showing phase one of the proposed improvements to the roads in and around Amesbury town centre.

The plans, which form part of Wiltshire County Council's local transport plan, aim to enhance the town's overall street scene and improve facilities for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable users.

After consultation with a number of stakeholder groups, the plans were unveiled last week, and show that the first phase of works will focus on the construction of a double mini-roundabout at the A345 junction with Salisbury Street.

The works, which are due to begin on July 2, will eventually reduce sign clutter, provide a more formal and understandable road layout, and improve street lighting - but at the cost of traffic congestion while work is taking place.

However, town councillor John Noeken moved quickly to reassure residents that any traffic delays would be minimal and that the works were needed to ensure the future prosperity of Amesbury.

He said: "This project will do so much to improve the look and quality of the town centre, both for residents and visitors.

"The work will coincide with the reopening of a number of retail outlets at the top of Salisbury Street and in Salisbury Street itself during the next few months, once legal and planning procedures are completed, and this will totally rejuvenate our town.

"This work now firmly puts the pressure on to the Co-op group to do something positive about their old store, which has become an eyesore, as that large site could be the pivot for the regeneration of the town itself once enhancement works are complete."

The plans can be viewed, after work has begun, in Amesbury town library. For more information call 01225 713 000.