Work is about to begin on a scheme which will see major improvements to the main entrance at the University of Liverpool's campus.

The £1.5m University Square scheme will see the public realm on the open space at the junction of Mount Pleasant and Brownlow Hill refurbished.

The project was originally proposed by the University of Liverpool as part of its Campus Enhancement Project and forms part of the City Centre Movement Strategy, a £73m package of road and footpath improvements to provide a balanced and sustainable transport system, accessible to all.

It is also the first phase of a programme of work to improve the public realm in the Liverpool Knowledge Quarter and its connection with the city centre.

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Improvements include relaying footpaths to the main square in high quality granite paving. Modern street furniture and high quality street lighting will also feature as well as new planting and landscaping.

Highway improvements also include a new pedestrian crossing at the junction, kerb realignment and new traffic signals.

Work starts on the first phase of the programme on 14 July. It is anticipated that the full programme, including the carriageway works will be completed by Spring 2009.

Cllr Peter Millea, the City Council's Executive Member for Assets and Development said: "This is a scheme close to my heart as I remember taking my final exams before graduating from the University at the Victoria Building overlooking this area.

"It will make this part of the city look much better and will be safer for pedestrians. The Knowledge Quarter is a very important part of the city and it is important that we have high-quality public realm there as we create a city centre that is safe, clean and attractive. "

Birse Civils North West have been appointed contractors for the scheme.

(CD/JM)