THREE large silver birch trees in planters will be positioned in the High Street and Bridge Street.

Existing planters in the High Street, Bridge Street and London Street will also receive new planting and alongside this greening of the High Street, local businesses will shortly be receiving a letter inviting them to sponsor hanging baskets across the town.

Recent weeks have also seen the removal of redundant street furniture identified in the two street audits conducted last year.

Leader of the council, Councillor Ian Carr said: “As part of the Andover Summit the environmental improvements working group undertook two audits of the town centre and listened to the views of local people.

“It was identified how small changes could make big differences in the visual appeal and atmosphere of the area, and one of these areas was to enhance planting and greenery.

“I am delighted that the first phase is now almost complete, and along with the installation of the hanging baskets, I am looking forward to the town centre becoming a greener and more pleasant place to shop this summer.”

The second phase will focus on enhancements to street signage and bins, developing a scheme to ensure that all new street furniture will be in keeping with the overall theme for the town, and making repairs to paving that will be complementary to existing surfaces.

There will also be a review of the cleaning and maintenance schedule for street furniture to ensure the town is kept in tip top condition.