THE future is looking bright for shop owners on the Grange Estate following a project to improve security in the area.

Work was completed on Friday to install security lights at the back of shops on Abbotts Way and also fit gates and locks on the premises.

The scheme, funded by Weaver Vale Housing Trust and Vale Royal Community Safety Partnership, has been welcomed by members of the community.

Mike Kennedy, chairman of the Grange Residents' Association, said: "Shop owners identified through our association that the rear of the shops was in total darkness and they didn't feel safe at night.

"I'm really pleased that this work has been completed and now everyone feels a lot safer."

"Youths often congregate there at weekends so it was important that security was improved.

"Residents will now feel a lot happier about visiting the launderette, Spar shop, newsagents and Chinese takeaway"

The improvements are the latest in a series of security measures aimed at making life easier and safer for shop owners.

Chris Rowbottom, director of housing at Weaver Vale Housing Trust, said: "We listened to the feedback of tenants and business owners and agreed that the environment would benefit from improved security and additional lighting.

"We hope that this is just one of many improvements that we will be able to make in the Vale Royal community over the forthcoming months."