The contract, which is part of a major regeneration scheme in Woolwich funded by the Homes and Communities Agency with additional funding from Transport for London, will see the transformation of these two areas of public open space with the additional aim of hosting public events and festivals in years to come.

Specialist contractor, VolkerHighways, will start work on the Woolwich Squares in April. Home to the town's market, this work will involve new hard and soft landscaping, a new layout for the market and new street lighting. Improved pedestrian routes are part of plans for both squares.

Work on General Gordon Square will include the construction of a new water feature suitable for children's play, improved hard and soft landscaping, including new seating and terraces, and much improved access to the DLR and railway stations.

Peter Hyde, managing director of VolkerHighways, said: "This type of specialist regeneration scheme is now a large part of our business. Whilst we continue to hold Term Maintenance Contracts for nine London Boroughs as well as other public bodies, civil engineering environmental enhancement schemes fit well with our skills and the way our teams work.

"Greenwich Council and its designers have high aspirations for the transformation of these public spaces, so we are pleased to be working with them to make these a reality."

Cllr Peter Brooks, Deputy Leader of Greenwich Council, said: "The regeneration of the town squares is an important part in the wider regeneration of Woolwich. The scheme will improve the environment in the very heart of the town centre, and serve as an important gateway for visitors."

VolkerHighways will start work on the contract in April and it is expected to be complete by April 2011.