Work to transform the Guildhall Square in Sandwich by giving it a £1million makeover will start next month, bosses have confirmed.

The major transformation of Sandwich Guildhall Forecourt was expected to start in January, but budget issues brought about by the pandemic, plus a change in the national bus strategy forced Dover District Council (DDC) to reschedule the work.

Now those behind the scheme say contractors Walker Construction will begin work on September 12.

The redevelopment will see the square resurfaced and a bus shelter added alongside new seating and lighting.

It has been developed in collaboration with the county, district and town councils, and the people living and working in the area.

The highways work is expected to take eight weeks with the full project due for completion by Spring 2023.

Contributions include £400,000 from DDC, £350,000 from Sandwich Town Council via a public works loan, an R&A Open Legacy contribution of £75,000, £25,000 from Discovery Park plus a Kent County Council Highway contribution.

The Thursday morning market will relocate at the end of October/beginning of November from the Square to the car park behind the Guildhall.

The council says access will be maintained for businesses and the square will remain open to pedestrians as much as possible.

No Name Street will be closed for eight weeks so that it can be used as a contractor compound for the highways work.

Up to a week of overnight closures at Cattle Market will take place for resurfacing at the end of the highway works.

A layby will be created in No Name Street, where it meets Delf Street, for deliveries to Market Street.

Sandwich Guildhall Museum closed its doors last November in preparation for the works but reopened when delays were announced.

The council hopes the new look square will provide a welcoming space for everyone’s use and enjoyment.

Cllr Oliver Richardson, DDC portfolio holder for corporate property, said: “We are pleased that the improvements to the Guildhall Square in Sandwich are coming to fruition.

"This project will be a wonderful asset for Sandwich, helping to build on its reputation for staged events, as well as providing the local community with a more welcoming space to enjoy al fresco dining and entertainment.

"We ask businesses and residents to bear with us as we improve this valued space for everyone to enjoy for many years to come.”