A MULTI-MILLION scheme to breathe new life into Worcester city centre is set to kick off this summer, it has been revealed.
Worcestershire County Council and Worcester City Council are working with developers Salmon Harvester to launch the project to improve the current Cathedral Plaza shopping centre.
Construction will begin next month with the realignment of the highway to provide two-way traffic with bus and taxi space.
The development has been planned to enhance the historic town-scape and bring fresh retailers to the southern end of the High Street.
A brand new public square surrounded by a first floor terrace of al fresco dining restaurants will be created by the scheme.
The area will also have informal seating that will be used for a number of public events throughout the year.
Worcester’s composer, Sir Edward Elgar’s ‘Angel’s Farewell’ inspired the design of this contemporary interpretation with the score of the music illustrated in the layout of the paving and street furniture.
Coun Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, Skills and Infrastructure said: “The Cathedral Square project represents an exciting opportunity to revitalise what is currently a 1960s shopping centre to create an impressive public square as well as providing better access and connectivity to the Cathedral and riverside from High Street.”
He said the work should cause minimal disturbance to businesses and the public but the council would give warning before any work began that may cause inconvenience.
Coun Marc Bayliss, Worcester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Prosperity, City Centre and Riverside Enhancement, said: “The new Cathedral Square will bring a major boost to the southern end of High Street, helping traders there to enjoy the growing economic success that can already be found across much of our vibrant city centre. This will mean more customers for existing businesses and great opportunities for new ones.”
City residents can air their views on the scheme with an exhibition at the Guildhall which kicked off on Monday (June 8) until Friday, July 3.
County council chiefs will be on hand to discuss the plans and answer questions about the scheme on June 16 from 5.30pm to 7.30pm and on June 18 from 11.30am to 1.30pm.
Further sessions will be held from 10am to midday on June 20 and from 11.30am to 1.30pm on June 23.
Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/cathedralsq for more details.
