Town centre businesses are being warned to expect disruption when construction of Hitchin's new Queen Street Mobility Hub begins on Monday, September 14.

The work around St Mary's Square is expected to continue until the end of 2026 and will be completed in phases.

Hertfordshire County Council says the scheme is intended to make the area safer and easier to use for people walking, wheeling, cycling and travelling by public transport.

Plans include improved bus facilities, new pedestrian crossings, better accessibility and measures designed to make journeys safer and more convenient.

However, temporary traffic controls, pavement diversions and road closures will be required while the work is carried out.

Visit Hitchin, which represents and promotes businesses in the town, has acknowledged the impact the lengthy construction programme could have.

A Visit Hitchin post said: "We know how much disruption this is going to cause for our town centre businesses.

"We urge anyone who is concerned or has questions about the upcoming works to talk to Hertfordshire County Council this Saturday."

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Council representatives will hold a public drop-in session outside 9–10 High Street, Hitchin, from 9am until 1pm on Saturday, September 12.

Residents, traders and visitors will be able to ask questions about the work and find out how access and journeys through the town centre may be affected.

Further information, including plans, drawings and details of the proposed changes, is available on the Queen Street Mobility Hub project page.