IMPROVEMENT works in Worcester to revitalise key areas of the city centre are continuing at pace.
Improvements to date have been completed for the first three phases in Angel Row, Angel Place, St Swithin’s Street, Trinity Passage and The Cross.
The most recent improvements to Trinity Street and St Nicholas Street form part of phase four, with ongoing works on the Foregate due to be completed shortly.
Coun Marc Bayliss, cabinet member with responsibility for Economy, Infrastructure and Skills, said: “I’m delighted to see the improvements are being delivered to such a high standard and to the expected timescales.
“The works so far have made a huge difference to the appearance of the city centre and I look forward to the next phase starting soon. This major investment in the heart of the Worcester brings benefits to local retailers, businesses, residents and visitors alike.
“The project will contribute significantly to the sustainability of our local economy and long-term viability and prosperity.”
Shane Flynn, Worcester City Council director of finance and resources, said: “We are continuing to deliver major improvements to Worcester’s city centre through the £17.9million we secured from the Future High Streets Fund and it is good to see the revamp of the pavements and public realm being delivered on our behalf by the county council.
“The funding is also supporting significant improvements in the area around Angel Street and The Cross, including grants to improve buildings in the vicinity and the anticipated regeneration of the Scala arts centre – all of which will provide an important boost to Worcester’s economy.”
Phase five will see an upgrade to public space on Foregate Street including new natural stone paving and the signalised pedestrian crossing relocated from near Pierpoint Street to outside the railway station.
The bus stops will need to move slightly whilst facilities for taxis will remain as they are now. The carriageway will be resurfaced at a later date.
The improvements are being delivered by Worcestershire County Council in partnership with Worcester City Council and the next phase is scheduled to commence in July. Work is due to finish in the spring, allowing for a long break over the Christmas period to enable the Victorian Fayre and Christmas shopping to take place undisrupted. Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/worcesterfhsf for more.
