Controversial council plans to spend £1 million regenerating the centre of Kinross will begin today.
The work to improve the appearance of the High Street and inject new life into Kinross is expected to last six months.
Businesses are struggling and visitor numbers are low despite the success of nearby attractions such as Loch Leven.
The improvement plan was unanimously backed by councillors in January in the belief that it will bring economic benefit and return vibrancy to the town.
The council hopes the changes will make the town centre more attractive, pedestrian- friendly and welcoming to visitors.
However, around 80 people, including town traders, previously submitted objections to the plans, citing concerns such as the loss of on-street parking, poorly located bus stops and safety fears over the ‘town square’ shared surface for vehicles and pedestrians.
Individuals and groups had told the council the plans were not right for the town and could have a detrimental impact on residents, businesses and safety.
The works will begin at the Station Road junction, before progressing southwards down the High Street, and are expected to be complete by October 2015.
The proposals include footpath widening, where possible, and resurfacing of the paths including natural stone paving and kerbs.
It is also proposed to renew bus shelters, walls and railings; and to introduce more seating and street tree planting.
The focal point of the improvements will be the creation of a flexible space from 104 to 141 High Street, paved with natural stone.
It is hoped that this area of the High Street will be a suitable location for events and markets in the future.
A Perth and Kinross Council spokesman said: “These improvement works in the town centre follow the recent completion of the Kinross Relief Road and the associated business park infrastructure, which is now near completion.
“In addition they will complement the successful visitor attraction at Loch Leven which now attracts approximately 250,000 visitors per year.”