A WINCHESTER civic chief said she is delighted by the look of the new scheme at the Casson Block in Winchester, branded a 'pollution patio' by the Liberal Democrats.

Cllr Jan Warwick, portfolio holder for the built environment, said it fulfils the brief to provide a new terrace, lighting and planting to screen it from the passing traffic on St George's Street.

Answering a question at Council by Lib Dem Martin Tod, she added that the council was discussing with nearby businesses about the new planters.

"I would like to give some time for the planting to be established in order to see the full effect of the scheme.

"I acknowledge the air quality concerns which I believe are being alluded to through the use of the term 'pollution patio'. However, the scheme is genuinely seeking to improve the area to the benefit of the businesses and customers," said Cllr Warwick.