Enhanced security measures will be in place in Chester city centre during this year's Christmas Market.

Building work in Town Hall Square begins next month ahead of the market opening on Wednesday 18 November.

The city's festive celebrations will then begin the following day with the 12 Days of Christmas parade.

Various security measures will be in place to protect shoppers and visitors during the busy festive period, with CCTV monitored around the clock.

Councillor Stuart Bingham said: "Chester welcomes far more people during this period and removing vehicles from the city centre aims to make the experience far better for most people.

"The additional security measures were introduced a few years ago, supporting our CCTV cameras that are monitored 24 hours a day."

He said the arrangements were reviewed before, during and after the festive period to maximise security while minimising disruption.

From 18 November to 22 December, bollards at the Town Hall Kiosk and St John's Street will be raised for longer than usual.

The closures will operate from 10.30am to 8pm from Thursday to Saturday, and from 10.30am to 6.30pm from Sunday to Wednesday. On 24 December, the bollards will be closed from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

From 21 November, bollards opposite Storyhouse will also be closed every Saturday from 10.30am to 8pm and every Sunday from noon to 6pm for the duration of the festive period.

An additional closure will take place on 23 December while the Christmas Market is dismantled.

Bridge Street and Watergate Street will retain their usual closure times, with restrictions continuing until 8pm. Bollards on Princess Street will remain raised seven days a week from 2 November to 24 December.

Parking, loading and unloading will be prohibited within the protected area while the closures are in force. Vehicles still parked there after 10.30am may be asked to leave or receive a Parking Charge Notice.

Alternative parking is available at multi-storey car parks, Hamilton Place and Frodsham Street, as well as on roads outside the restricted area.

Blue Badge holders will be able to use designated drop-off points on Northgate Street, although arrangements vary by day.

From Monday to Friday, drop-offs will be permitted at the night-time taxi rank and adjacent bays opposite Coachworks Arcade. On Saturdays and Sundays between noon and 6pm, drop-offs will be permitted at the night-time taxi rank on upper Northgate Street, next to Storyhouse.

Chester Local Policing Unit commander Chief Inspector Paul Fegan said working with businesses, the council and the public was vital to keeping the city safe.

He said: "While the measures in place in Chester City are designed to help keep everyone safe, you too can also play your part by being vigilant and reporting anything that doesn't seem right. We can all play our part."

Suspicious activity can be reported by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. Reports can also be made at gov.uk/ACT or by calling 0800 789321.