A MAJOR step forward has been made in the £20million redevelopment of the Cathedral Square as a main local contractor has been revealed.
Worcestershire-based Speller Metcalfe will take on the multi-million pound scheme planned by Salmon Harvester Opportunity Fund (SHOF), with work due to start this month and completion earmarked for spring 2017.
The redevelopment is mainly focusing on the southern end of the shopping centre, creating a new terrace level overlooking the Cathedral with eight new restaurants, a new look Travelodge and more shops all on their way.
Nick Webb from SHOF said: “We have been consulting and working on these plans for some time and are delighted to have appointed local contractor Speller Metcalfe.
“We believe that by providing a £20million scheme extension into existing redundant space and bringing exciting new names to the city, we will be giving the shopping centre a brand new lease of life.
“The eight restaurants will create a vibrant new dining destination. By providing an improved leisure offer we expect to improve dwell times at the centre, which will benefit existing tenants.”
Des O’Neill, Managing Director at Speller Metcalfe said: “This is a fantastic scheme for Worcester which will regenerate the existing Cathedral Plaza shopping centre and draw visitors into the local area.
“Speller Metcalfe is delighted to be part of such an important scheme, and as a local contractor it is important to us that the project will provide opportunities for local employment.”
Deputy Leader of Worcester City Council Marc Bayliss expressed his delight at the news.
“I’m delighted that a local company has been successful in securing this contract,” Coun Bayliss said.
“This ambitious project will build on Worcester’s growing reputation as a fantastic shopping and leisure destination.
“This is an exciting time for our city with a number of projects under way to enhance the quality of our city centre for all to enjoy. This welcome development will create a new vibrant hub expanding the city’s existing evening economy.”
