A GROUP of 150 residents of a Hampshire town have expressed safety concerns over radical plans to change it.

Romsey's Market Place is set to be altered by council bosses following an earlier scheme in Church Street and the current work that has closed Bell Street.

A consultation period for residents by Hampshire County Council saw those who voted, opting for a design that will see a pedestrian area on the northern side, while retaining all traffic movements.

Now, a focus group, called Re-Think Romsey Market Place has voiced their concerns over the 'safety and suitability' of the scheme after welcoming the investment, and say they are backed by 150 residents and businesses in the town.

Work on the project is set to start in spring next year, with the campaign group in talks with the council's project board.

A statement from the group said: "A growing member of residents and businesses are showing concern about the proposed alterations to Market Square.

"While welcoming the investment by the county council with improvements in the town, concerns are being expressed on the safety and suitability of the scheme.

"A re-think is needed."

The plans will see traffic flow around the square as well as a pedestrian area created, leading to concerns over safety.

Executive member for transport and the environment for Hampshire County Council, Rob Humby, said he was confident the scheme chosen will support the future vitality of the thriving market town.

Cllr Humby said: "The county council and Test Valley Borough Council have worked collaboratively for some time to develop plans for Romsey Market Place, to make the town centre more attractive for all who live, work and shop there.

"There have been two public consultation exercises on this scheme, through which the views of local people have been taken into account.

"I am confident that the scheme chosen by the community will support the future vitality of this thriving market town."