A PROMINENT landmark building in Worcester city centre is being put up for sale in order to secure its future.
The Hopmarket is a Grade II listed building made up of residential flats and commercial units. Independent building and property maintenance surveys have confirmed that, in its current form, the building cannot be sustained long term and requires investment in the building fabric.
As a result, The Hopmarket Charity, the building’s freeholder – supported by Worcester City Council in its governance and civic leadership role – has determined that selling the building for regeneration is the best way to safeguard its heritage and unlock its full potential as a thriving city-centre destination.
As part of this transition, Platform Housing Group as building leaseholder will surrender its lease on the residential element and will support its tenants through a planned and phased move to suitable alternative homes. There are no immediate move deadlines, and residents are being informed directly and supported throughout the process.
The Hopmarket Charity will engage directly with commercial leaseholders, who run shops and other businesses on the site, as plans progress. Any future redevelopment proposals will be subject to planning processes and further engagement to ensure they reflect the aspirations of the city and its communities.
Bill Simpson, chair of The Hopmarket Charity, and leader of Worcester City Council Coun Lynn Denham said: “The Hopmarket occupies a unique and important place in Worcester’s city centre. This decision is about ensuring that the building has a strong and sustainable future. The charity trustees have reluctantly concluded that they are no longer best-placed to manage this important site and that it needs new investment to secure its regeneration and preserve its heritage while strengthening its role at the heart of a vibrant and growing city.”
Marion Duffy, chief operations officer at Platform Housing Group, added: “We know this is people’s homes – and that makes this deeply personal. Our priority is to make sure every customer feels informed, supported and secure throughout what comes next.
“We fully support the approach being taken by The Hopmarket Charity and Worcester City Council to secure a sustainable future for the building.”
The Hopmarket Charity has appointed professional advisers to oversee the disposal and developer selection process. Worcester City Council will support the regeneration process through its planning and civic responsibilities to ensure proposals align with the city’s wider ambitions.
