Work begins on major redevelopment of Hampshire town

Video report by ITV News Meridian's Mary Stanley

Work is beginning this Autumn on a multimillion pound redevelopment of Aldershot town centre.   

Parts of the High Street and Union Street have already been demolished to make way for the new look.

The town's centre, like many across the South East, has seen shops closing, visitor numbers falling and competition from online retailers.

The redevelopment will include independent shops, student accommodation and private flats.

It is hoped that by mixing town centre living with retail, Aldershot can be brought back to life.

Watch: What do residents think of the plans?

The site has been bought by the council, who are carrying out the work at a cost of around £50 million. 

Cllr David Clifford, the leader of Rushmoor Borough Council said: "Aldershot is definitely worth it and we're going to see a return on that money."

"We're not trying to compete. What we're trying to be is unique. We're going to get these independent traders in. This is not going to be like high streets anywhere you've seen."We're going to have all sorts of things going on because it's not just about the building, it's about the events that go with it."

Building work is due to start at Union Yard shortly, and redevelopment is also planned for other parts of the town, including the empty Galleria Shopping Center.

The scheme has been six years in the planning and is due to be finished in 2024.