Changes in Rainham Village are a step in the right direction for pedestrians.

A car-free area will connect the western end of Upminster Road and Bridge Road, next to the War Memorial, forming a new community space.

The area is part of a �1.5million traffic management scheme in the village, funded by Transport for London (TfL) and the Greater London Authority (GLA). The Veolia Havering Riverside Trust has recently agreed funding for the new community space around the War Memorial, providing a grant of �100,000.

Other work includes improvements to pavements and seating around the memorial. Parking bays and a bus stop will also be created in the area.

Cllr Michael Armstrong, cabinet member with responsibility for the Rainham Compass project, said: “Having this new pedestrian area will help open up the village centre and benefit local people, visitors and shops.

“We expect the works to be carried out with minimum disruption to residents and traders.”