Design experts from Essex County Council have been hired to revamp “key” underpasses in Kingston.

Place Services will redesign the underpasses beside Kingston Bridge and under Skerne Road Railway Bridge, both of which are popular with pedestrians.

Landscaping and lighting will be improved to make it easier for those who use the underpasses to get around.

Councillor David Cunningham, cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration at Kingston Council, said: “These ideas will help inform our decisions on how to make improvements to these underpasses and suggest ways we could better connect Kingston town centre and Canbury Gardens and in the future provide a safer route for pedestrians and cyclists in Kingston.”

Peter Dawson, Place Services’ Built Environment Manager said: “We are delighted to have been commissioned to redesign these key sites with Kingston to develop innovative gateways through the town.

“The new designs will create inspiring environments which will add uniqueness and attractiveness to the town centre for residents, local businesses and visitors.

“History and heritage will also play an important role in enhancing these spaces, underpinning the design concepts that are put forward for each site.”