Cheshire West and Chester Council have reiterated that the restoration of Chester's historic streets remains a key priority.

Work on Chester's High Street Heritage Action Zone, an initiative supported by Historic England, will move to Leen Lane this week, one of the city's historic alleyways.

Chester Rows are full of alleyways and ginnels that lie largely unexplored by residents and visitors, with Leen Lane providing direct access between Northgate Row and St Werburgh Street and the Cathedral entrance. Both parties say restoring areas like this would serve both a commercial and practical purpose.

Councillor Richard Beacham, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Growth, Economy and Regeneration said: "This latest work will restore the unique character of this alleyway, which is in the heart of the conservation area and opposite Chester Cathedral.

"Leen Lane has lost its historic charm over many years as the city has adapted to the day to day needs of surrounding businesses. These improvements will enhance this historic route within the city centre and retain the level of intrigue particularly from the Northgate Street entrance."

In recent years it has been used mainly as a bin storage area for businesses. However, the six week project will lift and relay the existing Yorkstone, making it smooth and accessible, before using historic images to design a thoroughfare that will be in-keeping with the traditional look of the lane, but make it once again usable for the public.

Mr Beacham said: "The work is part of our wide-ranging Row's improvement scheme, which includes lighting upgrades, repairs, re-painting, interpretation and public art. It is all about restoring pride and responding to feedback from residents and businesses in the city."

Historic England's Pippa Brown said: "The alleyways and ginnels of Chester’s historic high street are often overlooked. These improvements will help people to explore hidden aspects of the city’s heritage and improve the character of the area for locals and visitors alike."