WORK is underway to replace two bus shelters in Christchurch.

Passengers using the High Street stops are set to benefit from new, larger stainless-steel shelters on either side of the road.

The new shelters include glass roofs, full-width seating including space for wheelchair users, and raised kerbs to allow easy level access on and off the bus.

They will also be fitted with electronic displays to provide up-to-the-minute information on bus departures, and CCTV cameras.

Meanwhile, raised brick planters at the stops will be removed and replaced with smaller pedestal planters, to enable the pavement outside Christchurch Library to be widened.

Councillor Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy at BCP Council, said: “It’s great to be investing in improving the pedestrian experience in Christchurch High Street, and especially the facilities for bus users.

“The team have been successful in getting a government grant for these changes and worked closely with Morebus to ensure passengers and the wider public benefit in this busy shopping area.”

The improvement works, which got underway on January 6, have been funded as part of BCP Council’s successful bid to Government for £8.9m to deliver the conurbation’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. They are expected to be finished in around 12 weeks.

Andrew Wickham, managing director at Morebus, said: “I’m pleased to see these latest improvements by BCP Council will benefit those travelling on our 1a, 1b, 1c, x1, x2, 24 and 33 buses through Christchurch.

“Measures like these are instrumental in making bus travel more attractive – helping to entice even more people out of their cars and onto the bus.

“We are expecting these better bus stops to be well received here and will be continuing to work with BCP Council with a view to further improvements in the future. If we can persuade more people to travel by bus, we have the potential to remove cars from the road and help reduce congestion across this area.”