An £800,000 transformation of Sherburn-in-Elmet has revitalised the town’s centre, according to councillors and business owners.

A series of updates have been made to the East side of the town centre, on Low Street. The area previously suffered from blocked drains, cracked cobble stones, poor surfacing and dirty pavements.

Renovations started in February 2024 and finished earlier this month. The works cost around £800,000 to complete, with the majority of funding coming from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Councillor Mark Crane, Executive council member for open to business, said: “The aim of this project was to make the town a more attractive environment for those who live, work and visit.

““It is great to see the finished result, and we hope that by making the town a more appealing and exciting high street hub, it can help local businesses thrive and attract more visitors to the area.”

New improvements include new parking bays, improved sinage and town maps, more public benches and real time bus timetable information.

The renovations have been praised by both residents and buisness owners in the area. Johnathan France, owner of The Fish Bank fish and chip restaurant on Low Street, said: “We are all proud of the classic, traditional high street that we have in Sherburn-in-Elmet which offers a lot for residents and visitors.

“It’s always bustling, always busy – and you can get everything you want right here without driving out of the town to other areas. But the high street has looked a bit tired in recent years and in need of some attention.

“I’ve always said I’d support anything that makes the town more attractive for those who live, work and visit – and I’m really pleased with the improvements that have been made.”