Cllr Robert Benham showing plans to Lee Blackledge of TipToes, Hornchurch.

Roadworks have returned to Hornchurch town centre and will last for four months.

Havering Council says the work will bring improvements to the High Street, providing wider pavements, improving traffic flow and making crossing the road safer.

There will be some temporary traffic signal changes affecting traffic flow.

The council said it will try to minimise any disruption.

Last year the council, along with Transport for London and utility companies, were criticised for their scheduling of works in the area as many traders said it disrupted their businesses.

Cllr Robert Benham, cabinet member for community empowerment, said: “Though road and street works may cause disruption, this work will have a positive outcome for local businesses and visitors to Hornchurch once it’s completed.

“I am really pleased with the plans and looking forward to seeing the work finished so everyone can enjoy an even better town centre that is accessible to everyone.”

Trees are being cut down outside the Post Office as part of the current work, and other “more appropriate” trees will replace them.

Chairman of Havering Chamber of Commerce, Alex Armstrong, said his members would be closely watching the progress of the work this year.

He said: “The council seem to have learned their lesson from last year by speaking to businesses more.

“I don’t think any shopkeeper is opposed to the improvements, but it’s not until they get going that we’ll really be able to see how the work is being handled.”

Cllr John Mylod (Residents’ Association, St Andrew’s) said: “I think it’s been a bad idea, badly handled. They also never told us those big trees would have to come down.”

The work is scheduled to finish towards the end of May.