MAJOR works will start next week on improving a town centre identified by TV shopping guru Mary Portas as in need of a major facelift.

A £38m regeneration programme for Stockton High Street will begin with the road layout at the south end of the High Street being altered. Bus stops and the taxi rank will also be repositioned and car parking places created.

Stockton has one of the largest number of empty shops in the region, but the council is hoping the revamp, including improving the historicmarket, and along with a different marketing approach, will improve the town's fortunes.

It was chosen as one of the so-called Portas Pilots after the presenter of the BBC TV programme, Mary Queen Of Shops, was asked to find out why people were staying away from the high street in the face of growing competition from the internet and out-oftown shopping centres.

Ms Portas was impressed enough with the plans and efforts of shopkeepers to choose the town as one of a number worthy of financial and marketing support.

The Stockton Town Centre investment programme includes just over £20m from Stockton Borough Council and the remainder from the private sector and grants.

A council spokeswoman said that on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the new car park beside the Shambles will become a dedicated space for the 700-year-old Stockton Market with stall-holders also occupying space south of the town hall, close to the Castlegate Centre.

New paving, street furniture and trees will also give the southern end of the High Street, from the Town Hall to Yarm Lane, a new look.

CouncillorMike Smith, cabinet member for regeneration and transport, said: "I'm confident the newly-designed High Street will make a real difference to the future success of the town centre.

"It will be easier to get into the town and the whole shopping and visitor experience will be transformed.

"Stockton town centre already has something for everyone, markets, events and fabulous leisure facilities to name but a few. These significant improvements willmake it easier for people to rediscover what Stockton town centre can offer while enjoying their time in the town as well."

From Monday, barriers will be installed around the construction area to keep people safe, but they will be see through so visitors and shoppers can watch the transformation take shape.

During trading hours, it will still be possible to access all of the shops, businesses and market stalls while the works take place.