THE QUEST to find a new use for Worcester’s iconic Pump House, mothballed since Christmas, took a major step forward this afternoon after the building went up for rent.
Landlords Worcester City Council revealed to the Observer it would be retaining ownership of the building, which was formerly the home of the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust.
The council is seeking cafe proposals for the Pump House and is looking for an offer complimenting Gheluvelt Park, where the building is based.
The space has been advertised as potentially suiting events and small functions.
The Pump House went up to lease for £1,458 per month on RightMove earlier today.
The building is being marketed by leisure property specialist Fleurets Limited.
Fleurets has said the lease would ideally be for 10 years but alternative terms will be considered.
After being built in 1857, The Pump House spent the next 138 years providing clean water to the City of Worcester.
The building in Gheluvelt Park has been closed to the public since September with the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust vacating the centre at the end of last year.
It was used as an environment centre for around 20 years to provide information and advice on ecological issues and was run by Duckworth Worcestershire Trust.
The Duckworth Worcestershire Trust also ran a cafe at the building.
Worcester City Council has been drawing up plans for the building, with the Observer being told in January it expected to make an announcement in the near future.
The Trust, set up by city legend Cecil Duckworth, the man behind Worcester Bosch, died in 2020 and the endowment he left has allowed the charity to continue its work.
This cash ran out and with the lease up for renewal, trustees announced in August they would be moving out.
The new Kepax Bridge, which is adjacent to the Pump House, has been advertised as a major feature for prospective renters.
Visit www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/147702137#/?channel=COM_LET for more information.
