Iconic city tower blocks set for a major makeover (From Worcester News)

Iconic city tower blocks set for a major makeover

8:20am Thursday 24th January 2013 in News

IMPROVING THE SKYLINE: An artist’s impression of how the towers will look once the work has been completed.

WORK on a multi-million pound transformation to three city landmark tower blocks is now underway.

Worcester Community Housing (WCH) and social housing repairs provider the Mears Group are busy preparing iconic Cripple-gate House, Severn House and Henwick House, St John’s, for a £5 million makeover.

The work will spruce up the tired-looking buildings which dominate the city’s skyline giving them a new modern profile.

WCH property services director Bill Tebay said: “We are committed to making a difference to local homes, lives and communities and we feel that this much-needed improvement scheme does just that.

“It not only radically transforms the blocks, it also delivers better homes now and for generations to come. This project puts our investment on show for all to see.

“It is a statement of our ambition to make a real difference to, not only our customers’ lives, but to the city of Worcester.

“The scheme has been designed to enhance the contribution the high rise blocks make to the cityscape. They are an iconic part of the Worcester skyline and this legacy project will ensure that they continue to be for generations to come.”

The iconic buildings will benefit from a new paint job with a gradual transition from a darker shade at the bottom of the towers to a lighter, neutral colour at the top.

Roof-top viewing platforms and gardens will provide panoramic views of the Faithful City and thermal cladding will make the towers more energy efficient.

New lifts, windows and balcony screens will also be fitted during the 72-week construction programme.

The plans have been backed by tenants who have been involved in the process from the early stages via meetings, exhibitions and the formation of a steering group.