Work is started on town revamp

Work has started on a multi-million pound master-plan to regenerate Wellington's town centre.

The diggers have moved in on the town in a bid to kick start the regeneration works, which are expected to last until 2011.

Councillor Eric Carter, cabinet member for regeneration at Telford & Wrekin Council, said: "I am delighted we have been able to commence the work in Wellington.

"The redevelopments and improvements to this area of Wellington will unlock the potential of the town and help bring new economic and social benefits to the community."

This first phase will see the town's disused toilets, the former information centre and the 1960/70s extensions to Edgbaston House bulldozed creating a new pedestrian way.

The second phase of the work will not start until January 2010, in a bid to reduce disruption of trade for businesses around Christmas time.

Major construction begins at the end of March 2010 before the swimming pool and leisure centre are refurbished in 2011.

This also includes a new library, register office, entrance, cafeteria and first and second floor offices. It is hoped the project will be finished by July 2011.

Councillor Miles Hosken said: "It is good to see these preparatory works getting under way, the demolition is just the start of a long programme of redevelopment for the town and I am looking forward to seeing the new quarter take shape."