Worcestershire eyes up developer for Shrub Hill
The regeneration of a 35-acre plot could be kick-started with the arrival of an NHS health facility, as local authority plans to extend the city centre take shape.
Worcestershire County Council has launched a search for a development partner to help deliver its vision for the city’s Shrub Hill Quarter, with 500 homes and five acres of public space earmarked for land between Shrub Hill station and the city centre.
Earlier this year, the Government announced a funding programme for new and expanded Community Diagnostics Centres, aimed at increasing NHS diagnostic capacity and delivering more care in community settings – and the authority is hoping a CDC could provide early impetus to its plans for the area.
The council is in discussions with the NHS over the plans, with Shrub Hill now shortlisted as a potential location.
Shrub Hill Quarter, a masterplan jointly developed by Worcestershire County Council and Worcester City Council, proposes a mixed-use neighbourhood that would extend Worcester city centre and create opportunities for jobs, homes, investment and public space, the council says.
The authority has appointed Savills to help with the search for a developer for the scheme, with the initial phases of a 20-year project expected to focus on Shrub Hill Industrial Estate.
“We are committed to unlocking a residential-led, mixed use development and are confident that the efficient procurement process that has been shaped will identify the right partner to work alongside the council and maintain the momentum this project has already established,” said Sadie Janes, head of development at Savills in Birmingham.
“As the historic heart of Worcester’s railway industry, the area has a rich heritage, a distinctive character and a prominent position at one of the city’s main gateways. Alongside its excellent connectivity by rail, road and foot, it has the foundations to become a distinctive mixed-use neighbourhood and deliver a step change in economic activity for Worcester city centre and the wider region.”
The council’s deputy leader, Cllr Adam Kent, said the scheme provided a “once in a generation” opportunity to create a new gateway to Worcester City Centre.
“Shrub Hill is one of the most exciting regeneration opportunities in the region,” he said.
“Our ambition is to create a vibrant new neighbourhood that supports investment, delivers homes and jobs, and strengthens Worcester’s position as a thriving place to live, work and visit. We look forward to working with a development partner who can help turn that vision into reality.”
