Empty building in Worcester to be converted into flats – Worcester News

PLANS to convert part of a disused city centre building into apartments has been given the green light.

Phoenix House in Broad Street in Worcester, which was built in the 60s, can now be made into a mix of17 apartments and retail space after the plan by Deansway Regeneration was granted permission by Worcester City Council.

The upper floors of the four-storey building could also be converted into a hotel, under the new plans.

The upper floor office space has been empty, apart from a section retained for occasional use by the previous owner, for several years, with some parts having fallen into a serious state of disrepair.

The rear of the building will be converted into apartments with around half the space remaining as a shop.

A statement included with the application said: The proposals would positively contribute economically to the city through the creation of temporary construction jobs and improved retail and commercial space, which has over recent years suffered from a lack of investment.

There would also be new residents bringing disposable income into the city.

The proposals would contribute socially through the creation of new housing choices for a range of different population cohorts and would offer short term accommodation options for visitors to the city; the scheme would also offer environmental benefits through the improvement to the appearance of the building within a sensitive part of the city, and create accommodation which is sustainably located, reducing dependency on motorised transport.

Overall, we consider the proposals constitute sustainable development, and would positively enhance the conservation area and settings of neighbouring designated heritage assets.

The proposals would bring activity and people into the city centre, improving natural surveillance and vitality to a building that contributes nothing to the city at present.

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Empty building in Worcester to be converted into flats - Worcester News