Works to take out controversial traffic calming measures and pave the way for a “significant” regeneration project in Newport High Street are due to get under way tomorrow.

The town’s scheme led to protests by residents and traders and an admission from Telford & Wrekin Council that it had “got it wrong”.

The removal of some of the traffic management pinch points is part of a preparatory phase of works which will see the revamp of the road next year.

Five pinch points will be removed as well as the large bus stop near the town’s Guildhall, although buses will still drop off and pick up there – with a smaller shelter being installed in early autumn.

The contractors will also be removing some signs and posts no longer required in the area to give High Street a less cluttered look.

Further information on the regeneration plans for the town will be released in the autumn giving local residents and traders the opp-ortunity to comment.

It is hoped work on the main High Street project could begin in spring 2010.

Pinch points will remain in place near the canal bridge at the Water Lane end of High Street and by the High Street junction with St Mary’s Street to ensure veh-icle speeds are kept down.

Councillor Eric Carter, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “We are working with both Newport Regeneration Partnership and Newport Town Council to bring forward much needed plans for the High Street.”

He added: “We said all along that work on the delivery of this scheme would begin in August and we have delivered on that promise.”