Timeline of Lutterworth Market Square project adjusted to support businesses and festive celebrations

This strategic decision has been made to safeguard local businesses during the vital festive trading period and to ensure that the popular Lutterworth Christmas Lights Switch On event can proceed without disruption.

Whilst substantial progress has been made on the project's planning and preparatory stages, the commencement of physical works has been slightly delayed.

This is primarily due to the time required for the finalisation of necessary regulatory approvals with Leicestershire County Council, including the Section 278 approval process, which is a complex legal requirement for works affecting the public highway.

The Lutterworth Market Square project, a significant investment by Harborough District Council, aims to revitalise the heart of Lutterworth, creating a more attractive, accessible, and vibrant public space for residents and visitors alike.

Cat Hartley, Director of Communities and Wellbeing at Harborough District Council, said: “Our commitment to the Lutterworth Market Square project remains unwavering.

“Whilst the process for securing necessary highway agreements has taken longer than initially factored into our project planning, our priority is to minimise any potential impact on Lutterworth's vibrant town centre, especially during the crucial festive period.

“We are actively working through these processes to ensure all necessary approvals are in place, and we are aiming to commence works in the new year. We appreciate the patience and understanding of the Lutterworth community as we work to deliver this important enhancement to the town."

The council is actively engaged with Leicestershire County Council to complete the necessary agreements and remains dedicated to commencing construction as soon as practically possible, with a view to minimising overall project duration once works begin.

Further updates on the revised project timeline will be shared with the community in due course.