The work, to cost $11 million, was first mooted in 1996 but funding the project caused delays.

Now thanks to $9 million in Resources for Regions funding the work is now underway.

With two blocks of John Street now closed to traffic to allow the construction work to get away, Singleton mayor John Martin told those gathered for the official ceremony to mark the start of the work he was looking forward to the completion of the Gowrie to York Street section so the community would get a glimpse of what John Street would look like when the work was finalised.

“I believe when they see stage one, the public will be impressed and look forward to the final streetscape,” he said.

Cr Martin emphasised the fact John Street would remain open to two way traffic and was not being turned into a mall.

The work involves the introduction of raised pedestrian crossings, new pavers and widening of the footpath, 70 new trees and 2000 plants will be planted and 60 benches installed.