WORK WILL begin on final phase of Worcester’s Arches regeneration project – demolishing former takeaway and creating a new walking and cycling entrance to The Arches.
The former Jaqk’s takeaway on Foregate Street will be knocked down, opening up access from the railway station.
The new walkway will have improved lighting, making sure it is safe to use in the evenings and nights.
This is the final phase of the project which has been funded by £4.5million from the government and arts council’s cultural development fund.
The scheme has seen five railway arches redeveloped to create new spaces for creative enterprises.
Place and economic development committee chair, Robyn Norfolk said: “The work will create a safer walking and cycling access between Worcester Foregate Street Station to The Hive and the river.
“Once finished, the route will provide a more attractive welcome to the city from the train station down to the river.
“Demolishing the current building will also showcase Worcester’s historic railway arches and railway bridge to visitors, allowing the beautiful design of the latter to be fully appreciated.
“We hope that the new Arches spaces attract more independent food and drink, retail, cultural, leisure and commercial businesses to Foregate Street, along with giving a better welcome for visitors arriving in our city by train.”
Scaffolding will be installed and then the council will take advantage of a scheduled overnight railway closure by Network Rail between June 15 and 16 to install a protective screen between the top storey and the railway bridge, meaning work can start without risk to railway line.
The demolition is expected to be completed by the end of July. Paving and other works will then take place, with The Arches walkway due to open in the autumn.
