Worcester's major Shrub Hill Quarter regeneration project has received a significant financial injection, with councillors approving an additional £2 million to ensure its completion.
Funding Secured for Final Phase
The crucial funds were added to the capital programme during a full Worcestershire County Council session on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The money is specifically earmarked to finalise the conversion of the long-vacant Isaac Maddox House on Shrub Hill Road into a modern enterprise hub.
Finance chief Rob Wharton confirmed the £2 million would be sourced from one-off savings within the council's economy and infrastructure budget. This decision came after detailed design assessments revealed the initially allocated £5.9 million would be insufficient to finish the project, despite £1.3 million from a Government grant already being spent.
Transforming a Derelict Site
The former NHS office block has stood empty for approximately six years, symbolising the area's need for investment. Its transformation is a collaborative initiative between Worcestershire County Council and Worcester City Council, central to the wider revival of the Shrub Hill Quarter.
Councillor Jabba Riaz, whose Rainbow Hill and Fort Royal division includes Shrub Hill, praised the council's commitment. Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service after the meeting, he said: "I'm delighted the county council has approved the budget in relation to Shrub Hill."
"It's vital that this landmark project in a run-down area of Worcester gets the investment to bring in jobs. It is much-needed in this area of the city and in these economic circumstances," Cllr Riaz added, also thanking cabinet member for business and skills, Alan Amos, for championing the project.
Focus on Future Occupancy and Return
During the council debate, Conservative group leader Adam Kent stated, "We shouldn't be frightened of investing capital in this county." His colleague, Councillor Dan Birch, emphasised the importance of securing tenants, noting an empty building would not generate revenue.
In response, Councillor Wharton assured members that market research had been conducted and the council had received positive indications of demand for the space being developed at Isaac Maddox House.
The approval marks a decisive step forward for a project described by Cllr Riaz as "a great result for Worcester," promising to deliver new employment opportunities and breathe life into a neglected part of the city.
