Work is about to start on further environmental improvements to Liverpool's waterfront road.

It will involve improving the street lighting between James Street and New Quay and repaving the footpaths, between the James Street junction and Chapel Street, using high quality materials.

Although it may involve lane restrictions it is anticipated that disruption to traffic will be very limited with most of the work being done at night, outside the peak travelling hours.

The city council's Executive Board is being asked to approve the funding for the work at its meeting on February 13. It includes a grant from Northwest Regional Development Agency of £904,000 and one from the European Regional Development Fund of £131,000.

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The works form part of the £4m City Centre Movement Strategy (CCMS) programme for the Strand which has seen highway and environment improvements between James Street and Chapel Street. Part of the work - between James Street and Liver Street - was carried out for the Liverpool One development.

It has included new crossings, removal of the central reservation planters, improved junctions and the demolition of the footbridge at James Street,

CCMS is a £73m package of road improvements in the city centre to provide a balanced and sustainable transport system, accessible to all.

Cllr Peter Millea, Executive Member for Assets and Development, said: "This phase of works will enhance the appearance of a key route in the city centre. There have been major developments at the waterfront and we want the Strand to have a first-class appearance.

"It will extend the street lighting theme which has been introduced at Liverpool One along its route and there will be vastly improved footpaths,

"Not only will this make it a more attractive area but it will also be safer for visitors and workers."

Work is expected to be completed by April.

(CD/JM)