EVESHAM town centre is set to receive a boost as part of a council plan to spend millions on future improvements.

A £2.5 million fund has been earmarked in Worcestershire County Council’s draft budget for next year as part of its long-term spending plans.

The authority is proposing to invest millions in improving town centres, tackling congestion and improving the county’s railway stations.

Whilst the money has been earmarked for ‘improvements’ no final details have been revealed but the county council said it wanted to provide public spaces which were distinctive but helped “preserve” the county’s historic character.

The ‘much-needed’ money has already been welcomed by Wychavon District Council which said it would be a timely boost for addressing traffic issues in Evesham as well as kick-start a transformation of the town centre.

Phil Merrick, head of economy and environment at the district council said: “We welcome the potential for county council investment towards improvements in Evesham town centre, including traffic flow.

“Those who live or travel through Evesham know only too well that traffic issues need addressing.

“These funds could be a much needed and positive start but will need to be part of a wider vision to help transform the town centre.”

Councillor Ken Pollock, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: "We have a programme of works to improve the heart of our towns across the county. The aim is to provide public spaces that are both robust and functional as well as being distinctive, attractive and help to preserve the county’s historic character.

“This is essential to developing Worcestershire’s economy by supporting our towns to be Open for Business.

"The budget proposals include investing a further £2.5 million into the town centre improvement programme, to support regeneration and economic prosperity across Worcestershire.

“Further details of the programme, which includes improvements to Evesham town centre, will be announced as plans progress."

The county council’s cabinet meets today (January 31) to discuss the plans before a final decision is made on February 14 during a meeting of the full council.