RESIDENTS businesses and stakeholders are being asked to share their views on a revised document which updates the ambitious plans for the major regeneration of Worcester’s Shrub Hill Quarter.
A public consultation has been launched into a revised draft Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), which sets out proposals for the revamp of the 14-hectare site, including more than 500 new homes, new public spaces, and the capacity for the creation of up to 5,000 new jobs.
The SPD was first published in 2024, but it has been revised to take account of new policies in the South Worcestershire Development Plan Review (SWDPR), which was formally adopted in March this year.
Coun Robyn Norfolk, chair of the city councils place and economic development committee said: “We want the regenerated Shrub Hill Quarter to be an appealing location to live, work and relax, and the revised Supplementary Planning Document is a vital cornerstone in achieving that aim.
“The SPD focuses on the type of place Shrub Hill can and should be. We want to make sure we get this important document right, so I would like to encourage local residents, businesses and other stakeholders to have their say.”
The City Council is working in partnership with Worcestershire County Council on the plans.
The Shrub Hill Quarter lies to the west of the railway line, extending across the canal, and is bordered by Tallow Hill, George Street, Pheasant Street and Tolladine Road. It includes the existing Shrub Hill Industrial Estate, the historic Engine Works building and the railway station.
The railway station and the Engine Works are among several listed buildings on the site, all of which would be preserved under the proposals set out in the draft SPD.
The document sets out clear expectations for developers who want to purchase land in the Shrub Hill Quarter or submit a planning application for the area. It clarifies where built development is expected to take place and, importantly, where no development is likely to be allowed.
The SPD also provides a coherent and integrated approach to the whole site, to assist in attracting future funding applications to support public infrastructure.
Worcester City Council has launched the consultation on the updated Shrub Hill SPD at www.worcester.gov.uk/voiceit with printed copies are also available from the Guildhall or by calling 01905 722233.
The deadline for taking part is 5pm on Friday June 5.
