The new-look Bank Street re-opened to traffic at the beginning of August and is the first phase of Ashford’s shared space area to be completed.

The work started last year in September on the drive to establish Ashford as one of the best places in Britain to live, work and play.

Bank Street has been opened up giving shoppers more freedom to walk about and made more attractive with high quality paving materials and street furniture. At the same time, a 20mph zone will be introduced to slow down traffic and increase safety.

Buses will remain at Church Road, until the end of August, then return to Bank Street when the bus shelter installation is completed.

With a history of change over the years, Bank Street continues to be a key street in the centre of the town. The new facelift has brought with it unique artworks, from some of Britain’s most award-winning artists and sets out a great preliminary introduction to the rest of the shared space scheme to follow by the end of the Autumn.

David Hill, Chief Executive of Ashford Borough Council, said: “We are delighted Bank Street has reached a stage where people can actually see the benefits of the scheme take shape.”

KCC Cabinet Member for Regeneration Roger Gough said: “We appreciate that the road works have made it difficult for shoppers and traders in recent months, but I am pleased that in Bank Street this is nearly over.

“This is an exciting time for Ashford. We’ve got rid of the old ring road and now we’re creating a much better environment for everyone. Bank Street is just the start and over the next six months the street scene will be transformed.”

Richard Stubbings, KCC's Regeneration and Projects Manager, says that: "We are very pleased with the look of the 'new' Bank Street. Quality materials have been used to give distinctiveness and durability, and we hope that Bank Street will develop a new high profile role as a link between the old and new shopping areas of Ashford."

Work for the scheme will still continue, with a scheduled date of completion for October 31.