WORKS to smarten up shopfronts at the top of Walthamstow High Street have been completed.

The council has spent £400,000 on installing new awnings and shutters, along with repainting the frontages, as part of attempts to attract shoppers and boost the area.

The works began in April.

It comes following similar works in Leyton High Road, which were greeted with a mixed reaction by traders.

Many said the refurbishments had improved the look of the area but some businesses told the Guardian it had made no difference to the number of shoppers visiting.

Council leader Cllr Chris Robbins said: “They look absolutely marvellous...

“We know residents are crying out for better shops and better leisure facilities in this borough and it is just this sort of investment that can help turn those aspirations into realities."