Work will start later this month on a major high street revamp that will see the creation of a one-way system.

The project, in Norton, Stockton, will also involve pedestrianised areas being extended.

It is hoped the work, which will start on Monday, February 26, will provide improved parking and traffic flow, create more flexible spaces and allow for leisure activities, pop-up markets and outdoor seating.

Darlington and Stockton Times: A computer generated image of how Norton High Street will look after the work

The new northbound one-way system will be located at the southern section of the High Street.

The completed scheme will also provide six additional car, taxi or loading spaces.

Stockton Council has appointed Esh Construction to undertake the work, and a number of changes to the High Street will be in place during the construction period.

Work will take place in phases before its completion in autumn.

From Sunday, March 3, the new one-way road layout will be in place, along with traffic management arrangements.

Leven Road shopping parade will have its traffic flow reversed, with entry from Leven Road and exiting onto Norton High Street to join the new one-way system.

Phase one will include highway and footpath works on the west side of the High Street between Holly Street and the service road in front of Tesco Express and Greggs and on the eastern side of the High Street between the A139 and Holly Street.

Phase two will begin later in the spring and will include highways and footpath works from Harland Place to Holly Street.

Final surfacing works will take place in the summer.

Councillor Nigel Cooke, cabinet member for regeneration and housing, said: “People want to be a part of Norton and its success but with that comes improvements that need to be made to give everyone the best experience in the town.

“We’re following up from the wonderful additions to the duck pond and delivering another positive benefit to Norton for its residents, businesses and visitors.”

Steven Garrigan, divisional director at Esh Construction, added: “Combined with the Stockton Waterfront project that we are also delivering, it is an exciting time as a North East contractor to be involved in the transformation programme underway across the borough.”