A major clean-up operation is under way alongside Huddersfield bus station.

And it’s a two-fold exercise - to get rid of litter problems and also to rid the area of the fear of anti-social behaviour.

Work has started on improving the planted area to the car park entrance side of the station in Upperhead Row.

Council officials admit the area is a hot spot for anti-social behaviour and street cleaners regularly find litter including cans, broken bottles and discarded needles in between the trees and bushes.

The heavy planting makes it difficult and dangerous to clear.

Clr Julie Stewart-Turner, whose Newsome ward includes the bus station, said: “The space is also quite dark, which is intimidating for the significant number of people passing by at night.

“The changes will result in a much safer and more attractive open space.

“It is very overgrown and has been an eyesore for quite a while.

“It is difficult for the staff to keep clean with all the litter that is left there, and it is a very dark area which is intimidating for people using the bus station”.

The work will include cleansing the area to the rear of the planted area, before removing some of the plants and laying turf.

Some plants will be kept to add colour and texture to the area. Two trees will also be planted to enhance the whole area. Further work in the Spring may include removing the fence and relocating some benches to make an attractive seating area.

The recommendation for the work came from Green Party councillor Clr Stewart Turner, who chairs the Huddersfield Neighbourhood Management Group.