AN £850,000 package of improvements to change the street layout and landscape of one of Bournemouth’s most run-down areas will begin next week.

The redevelopment of Horseshoe Common will see the roundabout at Old Christchurch Road replaced with a junction and a new shared space will be created between Horseshoe Common and Old Christchurch Road.

New walking and cycling routes will be created and unnecessary railings and signs will be removed to give the area a less cluttered appearance.

The area will also benefit from new street furniture, trees and shrubs.

Taxi parking and bus stops will be relocated and Old Christchurch Road, Dean Park Crescent and Madeira Road will be included in a 20mph zone. A night-time road closure will also be put in place.

The project will last for around six months and the first phase will see Dean Park Crescent closed to all vehicles for approximately six weeks.

During this time, there will be no access from Old Christchurch Road and limited access from Richmond Hill for residents and businesses only.

It is part of the Three Towns Travel scheme, which aims to improve transport links in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch.

Cllr Michael Filer, cabinet member for transport, said: “Horseshoe Common and its surrounding area is a key route for those travelling between Bournemouth Travel Interchange and the Town Centre.

“The street improvements will complement the ongoing regeneration being carried out at this town centre location. Once complete this regeneration will increase the vitality of the area, making it a more pleasant place for people to visit and stimulate economic activity and employment.”

The improvements complement regeneration work underway at nearby Leyton Mount, where a development of flats and commercial space is currently under construction.