A TREE-LINED street leading to the historic Banbury Cross will be getting a makeover to improve the scenery for shoppers in the town.

Cherwell District Council has started the first phase of work at Horsefair in Banbury to replace the 12 large trees between Banbury Cross and St Mary's Church.

There are currently four Ash trees which are species known to have structural weakness, and eight lime trees which are causing hazards due to the roots lifting the pavements.

Cherwell District Council lead member for clean and green Debbie Pickford said: “Horsefair forms a key route through the town and leads visitors to the historic Banbury Cross so we want this road looking its best.

"The trees which are currently there are in decline and also causing a trip hazard so we want to bring some green back to the area and improve the pathways for everyone."

All the trees will be dug up and replaced with semi mature trees to and below ground new planting chambers will also be created with a 'root protection system'.

It will take four weeks.

The second phase of work will take place later in the year to replace and level the current paving slabs which ave been lifted.