Former industrial estate could become homes in new Worcester plan
A derelict riverside factory site could become almost 500 new homes after being earmarked for residential development in an updated local framework.
The former Diglis Industrial Estate has been included in the South Worcestershire Development Plan Review(SWDPR), following the demolition of former industrial premises on the site, which backs on to the River Severn in the south of the city.
Seven former factory buildings on the estate, which were at various points used for furniture making, petroleum storage and car sales since their development in the 1950’s, were issued with an approval notice for demolition by Worcester City Council in December, who described the site as “disused and dilapidated”.
The SWDPR has earmarked the 37-acre Canal and Rivers Trust site for a “sustainable, well-designed mixed-use redevelopment”, proposing “around 495 dwellings” and the retention of 7 acres of land for employment uses.
A new convenience store and community centre is also proposed for any future development, which would include a target of around 30% affordable housing.
A consultation on the South Worcestershire Development Plan Review was launched this week, after planning inspectors recommended a number of changes to the place, which was initially submitted in 2023.
The plan covers developments in three local authority areas in Worcestershire; Wychavon District Council, Malvern Hills District Council and Worcester City Council.
Also included in the review for new site allocations is around 24 acres of new employment land at at Mayfield Road in Malvern, along with around seven acres of land at Union Lane in Droitwich, which has been earmarked for 200 homes and a planned 100-capacity car park for a redeveloped Droitwich Spa railway station.
The consultation will run until 17 February.
