RENOVATIONS are expected to begin next month in a North Yorkshire town centre.

New railings are to be built and worn footpaths repaired in the Market Place at Easingwold.

The move comes after a vehicle collided with the railings several months ago, with more damage being caused since through vandalism.

Town councillors have now decided to pay for the repairs for the sake of the town.

Coun Geoff Ellis said: "This is a town centre site, it is very important for the image of the town, for the impression visitors receive and for residents. I think it is an important issue for the area."

Funding for the scheme will be sought through a grant from Hambleton District Council, but in the meantime money is to be taken from the town council contingency fund, up to the amount of £5,000.

Coun Nigel Knapton said: "The site is really not looking its best at the moment, and I think it will be a really positive action for us to do this for the town."

Coun Jennifer Clare said: "We should make this commitment to the repairs, but we should try to recoup the money through insurance or the council grant scheme."

Councillors decided to replace the railing completely rather than patch-up the existing damaged area.

Updated: 10:53 Saturday, April 26, 2003