AMBITIOUS plans for a £28million transformation of Worcester using Government cash will be debated by city council chiefs next week.
Councillors on the Policy and Resource’s Committee will be asked to give the bid to breathe new life into Worcester the thumbs up when they meet on Monday (January 25).
Worcester City Council will submit a bid to Government’s £3.6billion Towns Fund at the end of January and set out how a potential £27.9million investment could deliver long-term economic growth for the city.
Last year Worcester was one of 101 towns across the UK to be given the opportunity to create a Town Investment Plan (TIP)
Detailed public consultation by the Worcester Towns Fund Board saw a staggering 177 project ideas whittled down to a shortlist of six at the end of last month.
Among the projects is the Severn Centre for Well-Being on Hylton Road to support the education and training of health professionals.
The site will include a GP practice as well as on-site therapy and rehabilitation clinics, contributing to the needs of the local community.
Council chiefs also hope the cash will unlock Shrub Hill’s potential with the redevelopment of the First Bus depot site to build 350 new homes and create 2,000m² of commercial or employment space.
A new pedestrian and cycle route between the Shrub Hill Railway Station, Shrub Hill regeneration area and the city centre will be created together with a 3,000m² Enterprise Centre and 100 new homes on the current Isaac Maddox House site.
A second ‘Building Block’ construction skills centre will be created in Dines Green, building on the success of the existing one in the Warndon Community Centre.
New walking and cycling routes, such as the new Kepax bridge across the river at Gheluvelt Park, will be developed with secure cycle parking provided in city centre and neighbourhood locations.
A city bike hire scheme will be established, to include conventional and electric bikes under the plans while a major bid to enhance Worcester’s tourism offer including a museum and visitor centre at New Road to celebrate cricket in the city and its role in the fall of apartheid could also be brought to life.
It’s also hoped The Commandery will be boosted and the story of the Worcestershire Soldier will be modernised at the City Museum and Art Gallery, using it as a catalyst for learning about democracy and conflict resolution.
“We are living in unprecedented times but, as our Town Investment Plan demonstrates, ambition and commitment have never been in short supply here in Worcester,” Coun Marc Bayliss, leader of Worcester City Council.
Deputy leader Coun Adrian Gregson added: “Worcester is a city of many strengths, but we also have considerable challenges too.
“This comprehensive plan will invest in training for all and provide more opportunities for our deprived communities. “
Visit www.worcester.gov.uk to view the plan in full.
