A new �1.5m pedestrian area and one-way system in Rainham Vilalge was officially opened on Tuesday.

The system is part of the council’s Rainham Compass programme to improve Rainham and South Hornchurch.

The section of roadway, which connects the western end of Upminster Road and Bridge Road, passing the War Memorial, has been redesigned to form a pedestrian only walkway, which will improve access to shops and facilities. It will also provide a space for community events at the War Memorial.

Rainham Village was officially opened on Tuesday by Cllr Michael White, Leader of the Council.

The extended section of Viking Way, forming a direct one-way link to Upminster Road, has also been completed ahead of the busy Christmas shopping period.

The council hopes that the new road and the new junction at the Tesco car park will improve access to Rainham Village and provide parking bays outside the local shops.

The work was funded by the Mayor of London, TfL and Veolia Havering Riverside Trust.

Councillor Michael White, Leader of the Council, who officially opened the road, said: “These improvements will really help the village. The pedestrian area will provide a great space for public events and activities in the heart of the community, and the new traffic scheme will improve access to residents and visitors alike – so that they can enjoy the local shops and visit places like the historic Rainham Hall.”