THE SCHEME to enhance Romsey's town centre is 'progressing well' and is on schedule according to civic chiefs.

The work currently taking place in Bell Street forms part of overall plans aimed at improving the accessibility of the town, along with plans for Market Place following works on Church Street.

Bell Street has been closed since November last year and reopened for the festive period, before shutting once more in January.

Now, Hampshire County Council's executive member for environment and transport, cllr Rob Humby, said the work on the road is on schedule to finish in May.

The final phase of the scheme for the town is to push through with plans for Market Place, which involves creating a pedestrian area and changing the traffic routes from its current layout.

Those plans have come under scrutiny from members of the town and some businesses.

Cllr Humby said: "The enhancements complement the town's historic character and will support its future vitality to ensure Romsey remains a thriving market town, suited to the 21st century.

"Our ultimate goal for the area is to make the town centre more accessible and more attractive for all who live, work and shop there – meeting changing shopping patterns and needs of visitors to the town centre.

"I am pleased to report that the scheme delivery is progressing well. The work in Bell Street is on schedule, and detailed design work for the Market Place is nearing completion and arrangements are being made to ready the scheme to commence construction in early 2019."

Romsey Town Centre Manager Mark Edgerley said residents should celebrate the confidence the investment has shown in the future of the market town.

He said: "As with any major enhancement in an historic setting, there are ongoing problems of access to manage and inconvenience for traders and shoppers. I am convinced that when complete, Romsey will resume its position as the premier market town in Hampshire.

"During the works it's vital that people continue to use the space to shop and meet family and friends. The works represent a major investment and confidence in the future of Romsey which we should all celebrate."