Work started this week on phase one of the £50 million transformation of Stretford Mall into a high street.

The redevelopment includes the reinstatement of King Street with bars, restaurants, retailers and a market hall via the removal of the roof of the shopping centre. 

There is a plan for a square with events spaces and seating areas, plus a significant amount of greenery, as well as a plan for significant investment in the car park.

Work started this week on phase one of the £50 million transformation, which is possible thanks to a partnership between Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council, and thanks to funding from central government's Future High Streets Fund (FHSF). Caddick Construction is responsible for the construction.

It comes after work also started on some of the shopfronts on Chester Road and on the carriageway of The Kingsway.

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Liz Patel, the council's executive member for economy and regeneration, said: "This work will transform Stretford Mall and will create an exciting King Street with a mix of local and national businesses. We are committed to making the town centre an incredible place for all to enjoy.

"These are exciting times for Stretford and this work will make the town centre one of the places to be in Trafford. 

"The new King Street square is also a fabulous addition and it will become a focal point for the whole community. 

"I cannot wait to see the finished article," Cllr Patel added.

Bruntwood Works and Trafford Council received planning permission for phase one last year. The work is set to last until next autumn, a little later than an initial target of next summer.

An application for planning permission for phase two, which includes the creation of 800 homes, is set to be completed and considered by a Planning Committee this year.

A plan for a canalside destination on the site of the Lacy Street car park and ex-Royal Mail sorting office is still to be rubber stamped.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.