PREPARATION work to regenerate Worcester Street in Kidderminster is set to start next month.

A plan was previously announced to demolish the old Woolworths building, Littlewoods and Poundland store, among others over the next two years.

Industry specialists DSM have been appointed by North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration on behalf of Wyre Forest District Council to carry out work.

Surveying work, which is set to start from December 5, will be carried out at the former Woolworths store, the former Littlewoods store, the former Poundland store, the former Sigma Aqua shop and 1-3 Oxford Street.

All work will be conducted from the rear of the buildings and there will not be any road closures associated with it.

The work is expected to be completed in Spring 2023 to make way for the regeneration.

This project is being funded through the Government’s Future High Street Fund.

Councillor Helen Dyke, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Planning and Localism said: "The regeneration of Worcester Street is a much-anticipated project and for those of us who have lived in the town for a long time – it marks a huge step forward. 

 “Over the next two years, we will see significant changes including the demolition of shops including the old Woolworths building and the Mega Value store and the complete re-design of the “step entry”. 

 “The plan is to connect this area of the town to where the Glades Leisure Centre used to be, and to the area adjacent to the Former Magistrates Court - soon to be transformed into a new Creative Hub - in an attractive and accessible way".