The historic market square in the centre of Preston will have the builders in from tomorrow, as the go ahead was given for improvement works.

Sections of Preston’s Flag Market will be fenced off from Monday 5th September as the council carries out paving and tree planting ahead of the Guild celebrations next year.

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The council said the existing York stone flags will be re-grouted and the area adjacent to Crystal House will be re-surfaced with new stone paving.

CCTV cameras will also be relocated to the top of Friargate/Cheapside, and benches around the flag market will also be refurbished.

Cllr Peter Rankin, leader of Preston City Council, said: “The Flag Market is one of the most iconic and historically important spaces in Preston.

“It is therefore important that we maintain it responsibly as well as improve it to ensure it can continue to be a suitable space to host celebrations and other events such as the annual Remembrance service.

“With the Guild fast approaching we are delighted to be able to announce a timeline for the project, and we look forward to the work being completed.

“There may be periods when sections of the Flag Market are fenced off and safety precautions will be in place, and appropriate signage will be displayed when this occurs.”

The work is expected to be completed by Friday 4th November, with tree planting finished in late November during National Tree Week.

The work will be carried out by Blakedown Landscapes, and is funded by Preston City Council’s capital budget and Lancashire County Council.

Image credit to Keith Napoleon