KIDDERMINSTER shoppers and residents have reacted to new plans to transform old buildings in the town centre into a park.

The designs for the new green space were presented to town centre visitors today (Thursday, August 3).

The former Woolworths, Megavalue, Poundland, and Sigma Aquatics buildings on Worcester Street have been cleared and will be demolished in phases over the next few weeks to make way for the new development.

Funding for the project is being provided by the government's Future High Streets Fund (FHSF), to attract further investment and improve the overall experience for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Sophie Hellewell, of Ares Landscape Architects, the firm behind the design, said: "We are all positive and excited and hoping it will make a change for the town.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Bird's eye view south east across open space towards Worcester Street Bird's eye view south east across open space towards Worcester Street (Image: (Image: NWedR/ Ares Landscape Architects))

"The construction will start next year with the aim to finish late summer/ autumn next year. That's our goal".

BID Manager James Barker believes the new park plan is key to opening the town centre up for future leisure events to increase footfall.

"Kidderminster is a sleeping beast and we're ready to wake up," he said.

Danny Pardoe, leader of employer engagement at Kidderminster College, said: "For the students I think it gives them a nicer place to call home".

People visiting Kidderminster were shown details of the plans as well as an artist's impressions of what the project would look like.

Kidderminster Shuttle: View from top of High Street towards Bromsgrove StreetView from top of High Street towards Bromsgrove Street (Image: (Image: NWedR/ Ares Landscape Architects))

Claire Hulme, aged 51, said: "I think it's a really good positive development for the town".

Debbie Cox, aged 57, said: "I think it's lovely but I think they should be concentrating on shops more than that at the moment".

Jean Jay, aged 69, said: "It will look cleaner than the ugly buildings".

Edward John Morris, aged 77, said: "I think it's very good. I think it will make it look more presentable".

Others have shared their thoughts on the designs on social media.

Bev Pagett believes that "new shops or restaurants would be better."

Jo Wilson said: "New shops are what is needed the town already has parks".

Lisa Perry said: "Looks fantastic! 110% improvement on what’s there now".