AS Worcester’s new £60 million library and history centre the Hive takes shape, a project has been launched to trace the history of the site off the Butts.

The development covers land formerly occupied by Worcester cattle market, the city council’s transport department and nine almshouses.

Justin Hughes, of Worcestershire County Council’s history centre, would like to hear from anyone who can tell him anything about any or all of the three.

“The new history centre at the Hive will reflect the life of the city of Worcester through the centuries, with its rich archival and archaeological records,” he said.

“One such showcase is the capturing of memories of members of the public who have strong links with the space which the Hive is now occupying.

“This is connected to three particular areas from the near past. First, the nine Nash’s almshouses, which fronted the former Croft Walk and provided homes for many people from the 1850s to the 1970s.

“Secondly, the former Worcester City Council transport depot which only ceased operating in 2008 to make way for the Hive venture.

“Thirdly, the cattle market, which traded widely from its Croft Road base until moving from its central Worcester site to the city outskirts in 2001.

“I would love to contact anyone who is related, through family or friendship, to folk who once lived in the almshouses, from people who worked at the transport depot or from those who have memories of cattle market days.”

If you can help, call 01905 765926 or send an e-mail to jhughes@worcestershire. gov.uk Construction of the Hive has been progressing well and it is due to open to the public in July next year.