WORK to transform a walkway described as one of the "shabbiest" areas of Marchmont into a new public square is to get under way by the end of the year.

Council chiefs have approved the scheme, which will see a tree-lined public square created off Roseneath Terrace to act as a meeting place.

The area was identified by the council last year as one of five places across the city in need of urgent improvement.

Plans for the scheme were drawn up by architects and community leaders, who said that there needed to be wider pavements, better road safety and a pedestrianised public square.

Other features that will be created on the square include public information boards, recycling bins, benches, trees and cycle racks.

The scheme is expected to cost around £250,000 and officials have said work will begin by the end of this year and will be completed by next spring.

Community leaders have said it would help "revitalise" the area into a key shopping location.