THE second phase of a programme to revamp a city centre is about to get under way at a cost of £1.5m.

By the time the project is completed, in October, the centre of Ripon will have been given a whole new look.

A key feature of the works will be the enhancement of the setting of the great obelisk - the oldest in Britain - built in the Market Place by John Aislabie, in 1702.

And both it and the town hall will be floodlit in an effort to establish the cathedral city as one of the region's top tourist attractions.

The scheme is a joint venture between North Yorkshire County Council, Harrogate Borough Council and English Heritage.

The National Lottery's Heritage Fund is providing 75 per cent of the funding.

The extensive restoration of the Market Place will see priority being given to pedestrians through designated areas and wider footpaths.

Particular efforts are being made to make the area wheelchair-friendly.

The streets will be repaved in traditional materials to enhance the architectural and historic character and provide a more pleasant environment.

New trees will be planted and benches will be provided in the pedestrian-only areas. New street lighting, in keeping with existing lanterns, will also be installed.

The project will also include new parking arrangements with specific bays provided for bicycles, motorbikes and the use of disabled people.

Underground public lavatories will be demolished and replaced with modern facilities at the Wakeman's House.

During the early stages of the work, a full archaeological dig will also be held, which should add detail to the history of Ripon.

County Councillor Peter Sowray said: "The first phase of this development, to enhance Kirkgate, Duck Hill and Minster Road, was completed in 1999 to great acclaim from Ripon Civic Society.

"They presented the county council with two prestigious awards in recognition of the sensitive facelift.

"We are confident the second phase will be equally award-winning."