A �250,000 public art project is in the hands of two artists after their designs attracted the most support in a consultation.

Tim Ward and Lucien Simon will join forces to come up with a proposal to improve the area around the A406 bridge in High Road, South Woodford.

Their suggestions for the bridge, which has been branded “gloomy” by residents, include illuminated pillars and stainless steel benches and bins engraved with historical links.

This would replace the existing seating area and bricked flower bed.

However Church End ward Cllr Richard Hoskins has raised concerns about the plans insisting a green link must be retained.

He said: “My concern is for the trees on the shoulders of the bridge which have taken a long time to grow and should be incorporated in the design.

“I would be very unhappy if they were removed and replaced because this would leave concrete waste land.

“The area’s green links must not be destroyed.”

Mr Hoskins also highlighted the importance of consulting residents again before a final design is decided.

More than 100 people voted on their favourite proposals which could be viewed online and at South Woodford library in November.

The cash to make the improvements is made up of contributions from developers.

A Redbridge Council spokesman said: “Following public consultation and a public vote, two artists were selected to work together on the project.

They will be working with a number different community groups and organisations as well as holding an open session at South Woodford Library to hear any final comments. This will influence the finer details of the artwork. However the overall scheme is as per the previous consultation with the public. Exact and dates of the project are still to be confirmed.”

ENDS