Public art, new trees and pocket parks will be part of a multimillion pound street improvement project for Ilford town centre.

Redbridge Council announced the plans on Monday, which aim to transform Ilford High Road with new, high quality and accessible public spaces.

As well as the greenery, the town centre’s lighting and seating will be improved, there will be informal play areas for children and improved pedestrian and cycle routes.

The council also said it would “encourage a strong night time economy, contributing to a high quality culture, leisure and food offer”.

The improvements, seen in the photos, would encompass Clements Road, Clements Lane and Chadwick Road, as well as High Road.

Cabinet member for regeneration Cllr Helen Coomb said: “Our plans to transform and revitalise Ilford High Road are the latest instalment in the incredibly exciting story of growth and renewal that’s taking place in Ilford.

“Ilford is on the cusp on huge change and we are unlocking its huge development potential to position it as a dynamic hub of retail, leisure, business, creative talent and commercial growth.

Cllr Coomb encouraged residents to take part in the consultation on the changes.

Ilford Business Improvement District (BID) manager Ben Collins said he was “delighted” at the news.

He told the Recorder: “The BID have been involved in the consultation from the outset and we are delighted at the pace in which this project is moving forwards.

“I urge businesses to get involved and give their views on the proposals which herald a hugely exciting new chapter for Ilford town centre.”

The announcement is a welcome boost for the town centre, which only last week was described as a “dump” by the cabinet member for civic pride.

Cllr Ross Hatfull, who lives in Valentines ward, asked a speaker at the full council meeting if she thought Ilford was “becoming a dump filled with chicken shops, bookies and shisha bars”.