Design proposals which could change the face of Barkingside High Street will be presented during a public meeting tonight.

With about �2.1million available to give the area a facelift, design consultants are looking to firm up plans which are likely to see a new town square in front of Fullwell Cross Library and pool.

People will be invited to air their views on the outline design proposals, and make their own suggestions, from 7.30-9pm tonight at the library in High Street.

Representatives from JMP Consultants and architectural firm DK-CM are expected to be there.

John Sharrock, chairman of community group Barkingside 21, which will play a lead role in the project, said: “We are keen to see improvements made to the town square and the eyesore in Virginia Gardens.

“I think both Barkingside 21 and the architects will be disappointed if there isn’t a big input from the public and at the moment the plans are pretty much a blank sheet.”

The cash injection, which was agreed in March, has come from the Mayor of London and Redbridge Council to help improve High Street.

Ideas have included the refurbishment of walkways at the northern end, the removal of cobbles outside the library and the development of land next to the swimming pool in Virginia Gardens.

Work is expected to begin in spring 2013 and be completed by the end of March 2014.”

A second public meeting where detailed design ideas will be presented for discussion is due to be held at the library on November 29.