Trees have been planted outside Barkers in Northallerton as part of the project to transform the town centre.
Work on the scheme, aimed at improving and enhancing the centre of Northallerton, began earlier this year, with the work to install tree pits and repave the area directly in front of Barkers department store completed in June.
The two, four metre high, flowering cherry trees were planted last week and are sited directly in front of the main entrance to the store for both Barkers customers and high street users to enjoy.
Phase two of the scheme to revamp the town, started on July 5 and is now well underway with work currently ongoing in the area directly in front of the town hall.
This work will transform the current town hall square by extending it and making it a more attractive open space with new seating areas, better paving and more trees, flowers and plants.
It is envisaged this new space will provide a more attractive, spacious and useable area for events, festivals, activities and art and culture, meaning people will be more likely to visit, linger and enjoy what’s on offer.
The paving on the High Street will also be replaced up to the newly improved Zetland Street, the setting of the Market Cross improved, more planters installed, and seating and lighting upgrades introduced where necessary, as part of the project.
Councillor Mark Robson, leader of Hambleton District Council said: “The trees going in last week is another step towards our vision of making sure that Northallerton continues to thrive and offer both residents and visitors a vibrant, appealing and positive experience whether they come to shop, socialise or just enjoy a day out in our county town.
“When this development work is done, the new town hall square is set to become a focal point in Northallerton, as well as a fantastic venue for bringing the community and visitors together to enjoy outdoor events and entertainment, right in the heart of the town, whilst enjoying the heritage, culture, shopping and eating and drinking venues on offer.
“The trees are looking great and its particularly fitting that the first trees to be planted are directly outside Barkers given the late Charles Barker was always very supportive of enhancing the ambience in the high street by introducing more trees.”
Charles Barker’s son, Guy, added: “Charles would be thrilled to see trees being planted on the High Street in Northallerton.
“He was a big believer in the environmental benefits trees can provide, as well as their ability to further improve the appearance of the town to create a more attractive and inviting place for everyone to enjoy.”
Liz Bell, operations director for the contractor Galliford Try-Highways, commented: “We are really pleased to be delivering this prestigious scheme and enhancing the environment for both the community and visitors.
“Playing a role in shaping Northallerton’s future High Street fills us all with a sense of pride.”
The development work is being part funded by the York & North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership, with investment from the government’s Local Growth Fund and Hambleton District Council.
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