North Somerset Council (NSC) has announced the start of construction work on the final phase of a £3.9m scheme to transform Weston-super-Mare's Pier Square area.

The first stage of the project, which has included the creation of a new road to link Marine Parade with Carlton Street and provide improved connections between the seafront and town centre for drivers, is due for completion next month. Work due to be carried out as part of the latest phase will include the closure of the road from the resort's Grand Pier to Regent Street and the landscaping of the area with new seating and shrubs.

Coalbrookdale fountain, which has formed part of the Beach Lawns for more than 100 years, is set to be restored as part of the work in order to provide a centrepiece for the new Pier Square. The South West Regional Development Agency, along with the council, has provided funding for the scheme, which is due to be completed this summer to coincide with the reopening of the Grand Pier.

NSC deputy leader Elfan Ap Rees said: "What is being done will transform the seafront and put Weston back where it belongs as one of the country's premier tourist destinations."