TWO 'twig' benches have been placed in Taunton's High Street.

Taunton Deane Council said work was due to get under way to install the seats and to complete essential drainage on Tuesday (January 14). 

The benches have been bought and were put in place as part of the council's wider scheme to enhance and improve one of Taunton's central shopping areas.

The old seats were removed when the enhancement scheme began and the modern benches will provide a welcome spot where shoppers and visitors can take a breather.

Most of the improvement works carried out so far have been "invisible" as they are centred on improving and modernising drainage, which the council says is 'essential but unglamorous work'.

New bollards will also be installed to help control all but essential traffic in the pedestrianised area.

The bollards have been designed by Anne Smyth to reflect the natural shapes of fir cones and acorns. They will be made from bands of terrazzo and local stone, the colours blending with the nearby planters which are also made from a selection of local stone.

Work is hoped to be finished by March, weather permitting.

Other improvements to the High Street have included installing natural stone planters around the trees and improved signage.

Councillor Norman Cavill, who holds the economic development portfolio, said: "When the High Street was first pedestrianised in the 1970s it was ahead of its time and it has served us well.

“We are investing to upgrade it so that High Street continues to be an attractive place for shoppers, visitors and indeed the traders."