Thirty new trees are being planted in Sutton as part of a regeneration project to make the town centre a greener and more sustainable place.

The project is the most significant upgrade to the High Street area since the 1980s and is due to be completed later this year.

The High Street regeneration is being paid for mostly by Transport for London (TfL) and money from planning developments, known as Section 106 contributions.

Other improvements include the installation of new paving, new and additional seating and new litter bins which enable shoppers to recycle their rubbish as they are on the move.

Councillor Jayne McCoy, Sutton Council’s executive member for planning, economic development and housing, said: “The planting of the trees is a real landmark moment for the town centre project.

“When completed, the regeneration work will help make Sutton town centre a smarter, greener and more user friendly place.

“It will help us attract more visitors and businesses and help our existing traders flourish.”