A STREET in Latchford is about to get a much-needed face-lift following extensive discussion with residents.

At a public exhibition and consultation at St Hilda's Mission residents of St Mary's Street expressed their views regarding the overhaul.

This followed a questionnaire in which residents were asked what they wanted to see.

The renovation is part of the Latchford Renewal project and proposals include a plan to tarmac over some of the grass verges that get churned up when residents park on them.

The council also proposes to remove some trees that are causing problems and replace them in specified places.

Keith Sanders, the engineer behind the project, told the Guardian: "It's finding this happy medium between parking issues and landscape issues. You are never going to satisfy everybody but we are trying to go with the majority."

Resident, David Ward, said: "I think the scheme is going to be nice. I think we are very fortunate to live in St Mary's Street because it's a nice tree-lined street."

Fellow residents Harry Baker, Tane Baker and Laura Fogg agreed and added they could not complain about a lack of consultation.

Clr Elaine Welborn added: "Having visited the renewal exhibition it is obvious that in depth research and consultation has been carried out.

"It addresses the current problem of parking and will improve the visual appearance of the area. Another great boost for Latchford!"

The plans will also see three new crossings, white light columns and new shrubs.

Funding has already been set aside for the works and it is hoped that reconstruction will start at the end of September or start of October.

When finished the street should look similar to Clarence Street and Cornwall Street in Fairfield where a comparable overhaul took place.