WORCESTER CATHEDRAL grounds are on track to complete their ongoing construction project later this month.
Phase one of the landscaping project in College Yard surrounding Worcester Cathedral aims to transform the hard landscaping to a more accessible space to unite the cathedral and the city.
The area on the north side of the cathedral being developed falls within Worcester’s historic burial ground, and a number of human remains have been unearthed by Worcester Archaeology working with Fitzgerald Contractors Ltd on the project.
The remains have been excavated respectfully and will be taken for analysis, as well as all grave markers being carefully returned to their original locations.
Worcester Cathedral stands at the centre of a large Iron Age and Roman stronghold that acted as the origins of the city, and for the first time the Iron Age features were found within the area, such as substantial pottery.
Cathedral clerk of works Kate Andrew commented on the proximity to completion, and said: “Despite work being held up by two very cold spells and high winds, we are confident that by the end of February, all of the infrastructure will be complete.
“The paths are in place and the fan outside the north porch looks wonderful.
“We will have outdoor power sockets, so we can use the space for festivals, fairs and other outdoor events.
“The central path will be illuminated by low-level lighting and lampposts that were previously damaged have been repaired, and our own team of masons have been working on-site on repairs and laying new walls.
“The longer-term aim is to create a pedestrianised route all the way around the Cathedral from College Yard through the west gardens, down to the river then back through College green and College Precincts, to the main College Yard entrance.”
The archaeological findings will be explored at a symposium later this summer, available on the cathedral website www.worcestercathedral.org.uk along with more information.
