Work on a plan to revitalise the Hastings CBD that includes proposals for an Eat Street, a public table tennis table and converting buildings to apartments began this week.
On Monday, selected trees began being removed from the Heretaunga St central mall to allow more light into the pedestrian area between retail shops, and support the growth of the remaining trees.
In addition, seating would be installed around existing planter boxes, with astroturf used to provide areas for small children to sit and play.
Movable chairs and tables would provide further seating options, with a suggestion that City Assist personnel could put these out and put them away each day.
The performance platform would be moved further into the mall, retaining its roof, but with an extension built on the back to provide a storage area for performers' equipment.
This work was due to start in Autumn this year.