Completed Broad Street redevelopment delights local community
The Crown Estate, owner of the CrownGate Shopping Centre in Worcester, has just completed a comprehensive refurbishment of 18 Broad Street, formerly TJ’s Bar. After purchasing the building in late 2008, The Crown Estate embarked on a project to refurbish the three storey listed building, which occupies a prominent position on Angel Place.
“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to restore this important listed building, which had been neglected for so long. Given its prominent location, 18 Broad Street always had the potential to be a real asset to Worcester city centre and CrownGate. The refurbishment that we have now completed has given it a new lease of life and ensures its continued use for the future” comments Jim Yates, Head of Development at The Crown Estate.
Refurbishment and restoration specialists WK Cox (a Smethwick-based firm) were contracted to carry out the project, which has revitalised the previously vacant and unsightly building into a desirable retail unit. Now that the construction work is complete, The Crown Estate is in discussions with potential occupants in order to secure a suitable café or restaurant operator for the space.
“Our investment programme, which also includes a major refurbishment of Chapel Walk, is improving and enhancing the shopping experience at CrownGate, and this helps to better place Worcester to compete with nearby towns and to safeguard the continued success of all CrownGate’s retail operators – particularly important given economic realities.”
The redevelopment of 18 Broad Street is just one part of The Crown Estate’s long-term improvement plans for Worcester, which includes a significant £5million refurbishment of Chapel Walk to introduce new lighting and paving as well as updated retail units. On course for completion later this year, this project will enhance the appearance and vibrancy of CrownGate and therefore Worcester City centre, as well as adding to the choice available to customers.
ENDS
For more information, contact Lindsay Holder at Severn Communications on 01905 795999 or email her lindsay.holder@severncom.com
Published on: May 18, 2009
