WORK has begun to make a busy shopping street “safer and more attractive”.

A gate will be added to one end of George Street in Hove to shut the road off from cars and a series of benches and planters will be replaced. A string of bollards will also be removed to improve accessibility for visitors.

The new gate will be added at the Blatchington end of the street so it can be closed and pedestrianised at certain times.

Brighton and Hove City Council said this would “ensure the space is safe for families and shoppers during the restricted hours”.

Central Hove Labour councillor Clare Moonan said: “George Street is a vital part our local community and relied on by many residents for shops, services and, of course, a cup of coffee. It is great to see the work of many months about to begin, which will give the street the face lift it needs.”

The council has apologised for any disruption while the work takes place.