From 7am tomorrow two main one-way streets in Harlesden will welcome traffic from both directions in an effort to improve the town centre and make it more attractive to shoppers.

The changed to High Street Harlesden and Manor Park Road, aim to banish the area’s notorious gridlocked system as part of a £4.5 million regeneration project.

From 9m tonight work to switch the traffic flow will commence with drivers being warned of possible delays.

The regeneration scheme also involves changes to the Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) boundaries and parking bays which will come into force on October 19.

Parking in the town centre will become dedicated pay and display and for loading only from this date, freeing up space for shoppers and better serving businesses.

Leroy Simpson, chairman of the Harlesden Town Team, said: “The team has spent over four years in consultation with local residents and businesses and we are at the end of this part of the project. I am looking forward to all the benefits to the Harlesden community.”

Once the regeneration is completed early next year, cafés will be able to use the wider streets and farmers and specialised markets will be encouraged to come to Harlesden.