Church Street has been re-opened in Leatherhead after being treated to a huge overhaul and makeover that began last April.

This phase is just the beginning of the £1million pound masterplan for Transform Leatherhead.

All footways and carriageways were upgraded with a mix of York stone and granite, drainage was upgraded, trees were planted, and new street furniture was installed.

Jonathan Sharrock, Coast to Capital chief executive, said: “Church Street is a vital part of the Transform Leatherhead scheme and we are thrilled to have contributed towards a project that provides high quality space for local residents and businesses which is also attractive to visitors.

“We look forward to seeing the wider results of the scheme in the near future.”

It’s hoped the better environment will benefit all the businesses in Church Street, including the newly-arrived Waitrose store and the long-established Leatherhead Theatre.

To celebrate the history of the theatre, and with the support of the Leatherhead Residents’ Association and the Fire and Iron Gallery, five commemorative stones have been laid recognising lauded performers from the theatre’s history, including Sir Michael Caine and Richard Briers.

The scheme has been delivered by Mole Valley District Council in partnership with Surrey County Council and Coast to Capital.

Councillor Simon Edge, executive member for Transform Leatherhead, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to our colleagues at Surrey County Council and Coast to Capital for their massive contribution to the scheme, which we are all very proud of.

“Further thanks to Kier and Murrill for the physical delivery of the works; the street looks fantastic.

“Finally, on behalf of the whole team, I would like to thank the residents and businesses in Church Street for working with us and for their patience whilst the works have been undertaken.”