First steps towards vibrant new Shrub Hill Quarter

The first phase, kicking off this month, will see the removal of an old, unused industrial unit along the canal. This marks the start of a bold vision to revitalise the canal-side, creating a seamless connection to the city centre.

Supported by the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund, which promotes the regeneration of underused sites, this project will transform disused land into opportunities for new housing and vibrant community spaces, breathing new life into the city’s landscape.

As part of the first phase, Worcestershire County Council have just had planning consent for works to refurbish Isaac Maddox House, a 1.15-hectare site set to be transformed into an Enterprise Centre. Speller Metcalf have been appointed by the County Council to take these proposals forward. This project is funded by Worcester City Council through the Government’s Towns Fund scheme.

This work has been strengthened by the City Council formally adopting a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), which will guide development in the area.

The first phase will also deliver a new connection to the city centre, featuring a five-metre-wide pathway linking Pheasant Street, opposite the Asda car park, to Padmore Street and the existing Cromwell Street bridge over the canal."

Worcestershire County Councillor Adam Kent, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, said: “We are absolutely delighted to see our vision for Shrub Hill Quarter taking shape for the residents, businesses, and visitors of Worcester. This is a truly transformative project that will redefine the area, creating up to 5,000 new jobs and delivering over 500 homes. The aim is to build a vibrant community and establish a dynamic gateway to Worcester’s city centre. Shrub Hill Quarter will be a cornerstone of Worcestershire’s wider investment and growth strategy, showcasing how urban regeneration can breathe new life into underused spaces. These initial works are an exciting milestone as we move forward, bringing new homes, business opportunities, and enhanced public spaces to the heart of the city.”

The Shrub Hill Quarter SPD outlines where the City Council expects to see developed in the area, so that important heritage buildings and views across the city are maintained.

Worcester City Councillor Robyn Norfolk, Place and Economic Development Committee Chair said:  “We are very keen to see this area regenerated, which will be great for the city, creating new homes and jobs. The SPD sets out an ambitious vision for the area and will help our planners ensure that this part of Worcester is redeveloped to provide an attractive and healthy place for people to live, work and visit. In our work as the planning authority the SPD provides a stronger planning basis for development in Shrub Hill Quarter."

Worcestershire County Council, Worcester City Council, and the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership have been working together on a shared vision for Shrub Hill Quarter. More information on Shrub Hill Quarter can be found on the Shrub Hill Quarter pages.