First glimpse of West Bromwich high street revamp

With its modern shop units filled with the High Street's biggest names – this is the multi-million pound vision of shopping in the future in West Bromwich.

The High Street is to be transformed as part of an £8.2 million project to change the shape of the town. The pedestrianised stretch of High Street between New Street and Bull Street will be revamped in a bid to transform the town's fortunes.

The central area will be entirely re-paved, while new lighting, waste bins, seating areas will be installed.

The initiative is part of Sandwell Council's ongoing work to revitalise the heart of West Bromwich and links in with wider plans to transform it into one of the region's premier towns.

To allow the work to take place, the canopy and kiosk that currently sits between King and Queen's Shopping Centres will be removed this summer.

New street paving, lighting, bins and trees will then be undertaken in the new year with work on this section expected to be completed by summer 2013.

The entrance to the Queens Square shopping centre is also in line for a £5m facelift, including the creation of a new glass entrance and lobby area.

The phase of work will take place during the Autumn and will open in time for the Christmas shopping rush.

Sandwell Council's jobs and economy boss Councillor Derek Rowley said: "As you can see by the images, we are dedicated to improving the appearance of West Bromwich town centre.

"The High Street is the heart of the town and this will not only support existing businesses, but help attract new ones as well."

The improvement work is part of the Public Realm project. As well as boosting the pedestrianised High Street, the scheme will create a new public square and boost links around Sandwell College, Providence Place, the Eastern Gateway and Dartmouth Park.

By Naomi Dunning