A WAR memorial on Deeside is set for a £20,000 make over as plans to regenerate the area gather pace.

Connah’s Quay and Shotton War Memorial will benefit from the transformation as part of the Welsh Government’s 10-year Deeside neighbourhood renewal area plan.

The announcement comes after the Connah’s Quay and Shotton masterplan, drawn up by Flintshire Council and planning consultants Urban Practitioners, was moved forward by members of the council’s executive committee.

Carl Sargeant, AM, welcomed the proposals for the memorial which include providing a greener, more attractive public open space, as well as general repair works.

He said: “The war memorial is understandably an important monument for local people and I am delighted the Welsh Government’s neighbourhood renewal funding will enable an enhancement of the area around the cenotaph.”

Connah’s Quay Labour councillor Aaron Shotton said: “The inter-services committee have done a fantastic job looking after the Cenotaph over many years and it is fantastic news the area is to be given a makeover.”

The work is expected to be undertaken by participants from the Future Jobs Fund in conjunction with local contractors.

In addition, plans for the Connah’s Quay and Shotton masterplan were given approval for council officers to “further develop proposals”.

It includes redeveloping Connah’s Quay Civic Centre, improving pedestrian and cycle routes, upgrading Connah’s Quay Precinct and the environment around Shotton railway bridge.

The masterplan includes plans to open up Shotton town centre by removing railings while work to improve Wepre Brooke and the frontage of shops near Connah’s Quay health centre could take place.

Cllr Matt Wright, executive member for regeneration, said it was important the council followed the plan through.