Chiefs behind the Cornhill revamp work in Ipswich have denied the project is behind schedule, after an application was submitted to allow contractors to work weekends and bank holidays.
Ipswich Borough Council submitted a variation of condition planning application this week to allow longer construction hours outside the hours of 8am-6pm on weekdays, Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.
The application claims it will “allow for greater flexibility regarding delivery of the works”.
Despite the application, council bosses have said that the work remains on schedule, and there are no immediate plans to work in these additional hours at this stage.
A borough council spokesman said: “The project remains on schedule for completion at the end of October.
“We are seeking permission to enable work to be carried out at weekends.
“This will help ensure that the works are completed on time and will give greater flexibility as to when work can be done.”
The spokesman added that it will also allow construction teams to continue work sooner if a phase is close to completion.
A portion of the newly cobbled pavement close to the pillars connecting the Cornhill to Lloyds Avenue has already opened, but attracted criticism from one person using a mobility scooter for creating a bumpy ride.
A 16,000-litre water tank has already been delivered which will feed water to the new 18-spout water feature which is the centrepiece for the new Cornhill.
Work is continuing in the central part of the key town centre focal point, as well as having started in front of the former Post Office.
The £3.6million revamp is set to be completed by the end of October, and aims to be a “new focal point for everyone to enjoy”.
It is expected that one of the first key events following the opening of the new-look space will be the arrival of a real Christmas tree, funded by Ipswich Central, and subsequent Christmas lights switch-on.
The space will also feature four arches being built in the central area.
The scheme is being funded by a group of organisations including the borough and county councils, New Anglian Local Enterprise Partnership and Ipswich Central.
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