Improvements to a high street could start in early 2026, a councillor has said as he gives an update on the project's progress.

Hampshire County Council is looking to improve West End High Street to aid accessibility.

Councillor for West End and Horton Heath, Cllr Steven Broomfield, has given an update on the development, revealing the scheme is likely to go out to consultation in the early part of next year and be implemented in early 2026.

He said: "Money put aside for this is ring fenced and around £1.5 to £2 million.”

The Conservative councillor added that some of the new features would include safety improvements after the death of West End Brewery landlady Teresa Grimes in 2022.

The 53-year-old landlady was killed after a drunk driver crash on the High Street and pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

Cllr Broomfield added: “That tragic incident will feed into part of the new West End improvements as well as genuinely tidying up the street area.

“The scheme will now need another consultation which looks to be in early 2025 with an estimate date for the scheme being delivered in early 2026.

“Personally, I think this scheme is very necessary and encourage more people to come to the village.”

HCC previously suggested the improvements would include clearing pavements and street clutter.

This includes rails, signposts and bollards that could be removed or relocated to areas out of the pavement.

It also includes additional safety measures such as enhancing crossing provisions across the road as well as widening footpaths.

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It will be funded from external grants or section 106 contributions from developers.

Speaking at the time about what he wanted to see, Cllr Broomfield said: “Personally – I would like to see some local specialist shops, that would give people a reason to come and visit West End.

“Let’s make the High Street a nicer and more inviting place for residents and visitors to come and visit.

“The Hub should be the centre of West End village but at the moment it’s a neglected building.

“We also have an issue with graffiti in West End – which does not make it feel like a welcoming place."