VISITORS caught their first glimpse of the city's newest shopping centre this week as the long-awaited Cathedral Plaza was finally unveiled.

The £20m redevelopment of the former Lychgate Shopping Centre, in the High Street, began in January this year.

Nine months later, the scaffolding has finally come down, ready for its opening at the end of the month.

Centre manager John Kendrick said he had been inundated with "positive feedback" from the public, who were thrilled with the new look - a modern but sympathetic blend of red brick and glass.

And with the 1960s concrete faade transformed and the first store opening in just over two weeks' time, the finishing touches are now being added to the interior.

"The work is on track and the stores are looking forward to opening in Worcester," said Mr Kendrick. "And I've lost count of the number of people who have told me they can't wait for the new shops.

"The scaffolding came down over the weekend and since Monday morning I have heard nothing but positive comments from the people of Worcester."

The multi-million pound redevelopment of the centre, which sees H&M Hennes, Slaters Menswear and Next all move in, has not been without controversy.

City dignitaries have united in condemning London-based owners Tops Estates Plc for changing the name and severing its historic link to Worcester's original Lich Gate.

However, Mr Kendrick said the transformation was a major boost to the Cathedral end of the High Street.

"In addition to H&M Hennes, Slaters and Next, two other shops have moved into the shopping centre's mall recently, with a third opening in November," he said.

"And with Friar Street now a terrific shopping experience, it is a very exciting time for retailers at this end of the city centre."

The first of the new stores to open for business will be H&M Hennes, on Thursday, October 30, at 11am.

This will be followed around three weeks later by Next which will include a home furnishings department and Slaters Menswear - both around Wednesday, November 19.

What do you think of the Cathedral Plaza's look? Is it an improvement for the High Street? Call Dan Kendrick at the Evening News on 01905 742253 with your comments.