THESE images show the progress at Worcester's emerging Cathedral Square - with giant steelwork appearing into view to bring the £20 million rebirth to life.

As the clock ticks on the landmark development's opening, an army of workers have been busy at the site bringing the long-awaited new shopping and leisure scheme to reality.

Construction workers operating on behalf of investors Salmon Harvester have erected more steelworks showing outlines of where the snazzy new units will sit overlooking the big continental-style public square.

Bosses at the site also say the special 'viewing window' which offers passers-by a glimpse into the new-look shopping area is proving a hit with visitors.

The shopping and eating offer at Cathedral Square is still on track to open in the spring of 2017.

Amid the rapid progress, the body representing city centre businesses has hailed the development as a major boost for Worcester - saying it expects a significant economic boost.

Adrian Field, from Worcester's BID (Business Improvement District) said: "What it does is create a hook for more people to come to Worcester and visit the city centre, the Cathedral, the Commandery, the riverside, Royal Worcester and so on.

"But it won't just be the business on that side which will benefit from this, the impact will be felt across the city centre.

"We are keen to make sure independents benefit too from Worcester's growing reputation as a really good place to eat, shop and go out, there's a good list of stellar names already signed up to Cathedral Square.

"Credit to Salmon Harvester for putting their money in, and the councils too.

"There are big opportunities ahead and having that events space will be fantastic, we're just beginning to think what we could do there and need to think it over with our partners."

The Worcester News first revealed last year how the retail and leisure destination will create 100 new jobs, signalling a major sign of confidence in the city centre.

Seven new restaurants will operate next to a new continental-style piazza facing Worcester Cathedral, making it the city's new 'foodie' destination alongside the CrownGate.

A gym and remodelled shop units are also part of the offer, which is expected to boost trade for the existing shops nearby.

The list of names signed up to Cathedral Square include restaurants Ask, Byron Hamburgers, casual dining chain Cosy Club, All Bar One and steakhouse Miller and Carter.

Gym company Fitness4less has also agreed to take up a unit, with Salmon still in talks with investors about the rest of the site.

Worcestershire County Council, which created the new £1.9 million highways layout that led to the old Cathedral island being removed, will create the piazza once the new shopping centre is up and running next year

Worcester City Council has also been involved, with both local authorities hailing the development as one of the most crucial for the High Street in years.