PLANS are under way to make Worcester City centre safer and more attractive.

Worcestershire County Council will be joining forces with Worcester City Council to gather the views of the public on two major projects this week.

The first aims to provide a safer environment on a key route through the city centre, where there have been a number of accidents in recent years.

There have been 25 casualties on Deansway and College Street in the past three years, many of which have been pedestrians or cyclists.

The route separates the city's main shopping area from tourist attractions, including King's School, the Cathedral and the riverside.

As well as tackling safety issues, the councils will be working together to improve the general environment on the route.

The second project focuses on the High Street, which has become tired and run-down since it was pedestrianised more than 20 years ago.

The councils feel the streetscape is difficult to maintain economically and does not meet the needs of a vibrant city centre.

A consultation workshop held in March identified several key issues and opportunities shared by the two projects.

Representatives from the Cathedral, King's School and the City Centre Forum joined officers and councillors from both councils at the workshop.

A joint exhibition will be held this week from Thursday to Saturday at the Guildhall, where the public will be able to put forward their ideas and comments on the schemes.

Coun Alwyn Davies, cabinet member and environment portfolio holder for Worcestershire County Council, said it was important to look at ways to enhance the general environment through the scheme.

"The consultation process will be critical to obtaining the views of all users of the city centre on how this can be achieved," he said.

Coun Robert Rowden, Mayor of Worcester, said the High Street was important for the economic viability and vitality of Worcester.

"It also forms a focus for the many visitors attracted to our historic city," he said.

"The opportunity for a comprehensive review of the paving of the street and the activities provided within it is to be welcomed."