A COUNCIL leader has welcomed the start of talks to upgrade Halstead and the surrounding countryside.

Halstead Town Council held a meeting on Monday 14 December to discuss high street improvements, as well as plans for a new cycle path which could cut through part of the district.

Halstead mayor Mick Radley said a working group will be created to discuss the high street scheme, which will include the upgrading of street lighting, street furniture, pavements and a pedestrian island at the top of the High Street to help residents cross the road.

Mr Radley said: “This is a really exciting opportunity to implement long awaited changes.

“These proposals include nine projects with a total investment of more than £400,000 with a plan to implement during 2021.

“The town council reviewed plans for a range of improvement projects to the public realm in the town centre.

“This is based upon consultations carried out in previous years which can now be realised after evaluation and costing.

“The town council welcomed these improvements and were very keen to work with Braintree District Council on the details and implementation.

“It was agreed to set up a working group made up of two district councillors and two town councillors who would work with the district council reporting back to council on progress.”