AN ugly eyesore site left after the demolition of a fire-gutted nightclub has been hidden behind a heavy-duty wooden fence but fed-up councillors say the site 'desperately' needs to be developed. 

The former Zig Zag nightclub in St John's in Worcester was this week placed behind a thick wooden fence, screening it from the sight of drivers and pedestrians.

However, two St John's councillors said an urgent and permanent solution needs to be found at the 'prime' location.

Situated in the heart of St John's, the building was destroyed by a fire in May 2007 and was demolished three years ago but concerns are mounting about the lack of progress.

We reported at the time how five fire engines and 30 firefighters rushed to the scene to tackle the blaze. Even then Zig Zag, a popular haunt in the 90s, had been derelict for some years.

Worcester News: BACK: The other side of the former Zig Zag site showing that some clearance work has taken place in St John's BACK: The other side of the former Zig Zag site showing that some clearance work has taken place in St John's (Image: Newsquest)

The spot had become a dumping ground for fly-tippers and concerns were also raised about the safety of the site as a result. A metal fence was in place but the new high, solid wooden fence now obscures the view of the site. 

Cllr Alan Amos, a Conservative city councillor for Bedwardine, said:  “I am in no doubt that this sudden new fence was only put up because I am meeting council planning officers this week about this eyesore. It is progress of a sort but not nearly enough."

Worcester News: RUBBISH: Fly-tipping at the site of the former Zig Zag nightclub in St John's in a picture taken last month RUBBISH: Fly-tipping at the site of the former Zig Zag nightclub in St John's in a picture taken last month (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

Cllr Amos said he wanted to discuss 'a legal solution' in a meeting with officers.

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He added: "It is clear the developers have no interest in St John’s so we will have to force them either to build what they have permission for, or to clear off and let somebody serious do so.

"This eyesore is particularly annoying because I have worked very hard to improve the streetscene in St John’s.

"A few months ago, I got a brand new pavement put down all along the High Street with top quality block paving, and we now also have a brand new road surface. This is designed to make St John’s more attractive to shoppers, businesses, and investors. This eyesore is going to have to be removed.”

Cllr Sue Smith, a Labour city councillor for Bedwardine, said: "I walked past the site yesterday (Monday) when they were in the middle of the job.  I was very pleased to see the boarding being erected as it was extremely unsafe previously. 

"I was also very pleased to see skips on site so it looks like there will be a long needed tidying up operation. However, we desperately need this piece of land developed."

The newest plans were to provide two shop units, five flats and three terraced houses under redrawn plans, approved by the city council.