Work to reinstate the cobbles to a 30-metre section of Front Street in Alston (opposite the Market Cross) is expected to start in late Spring following the testing of the trial panel which was installed last summer.

The purpose of the trial panel was to allow the design engineers to test various elements of the roadway including the ‘subgrade’ and the stones themselves.

The council is now preparing the tender documents to appoint a contractor to do the works.

Cumbria County Councillor for Alston and East Fellside, Cllr Claire Driver, said: "I am delighted to see the work on Front Street to reinstate our cobbles making good progress and finally about to begin.

"It’s taken a huge amount of work to get to this stage and I’d like to thank the community for their continued support and patience as well as officers of the council for their continued enthusiasm."

"I am pleased that the contractor will be liaising closely with the Council, and that by working together with local businesses and residents, we will ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum and that businesses in Alston are actively promoted as remaining open to visitors."

The Alston Front Street Steering Group recognised the importance of the business community and residents involvement in the construction phase of the project and a sub-group of business and community representatives has been brought together to discuss how they can promote and celebrate Alston.

This is tying in with the road works and welcoming visitors back after the easing of Covid restrictions.

Work is expected to start in mid-May and the work will require a full road closure with traffic needing to be diverted via the ‘Blagill Loop’.