Guests including Worcester City Council leader, Chris Mitchell, took part in a “topping out” ceremony today at Worcester’s largest regeneration project at Sherriff’s Gate.
The term “topping out” refers to a tradition in construction, that celebrates the project reaching its highest point, (not that the project has reached completion). It is an opportunity to celebrate a significant milestone of the build and to recognise the continued progress from the site team. The guests were invited to sign a prepared section of wall within the build to mark the momentous day. This signature wall will be dated and sealed within the building like a time capsule, to perhaps be discovered by generations to come who will call the development their home.
Marking a milestone in the regeneration of the Shrub Hill area, some 120 people are now working on the project which has continually endeavoured to rely on local subcontractors and suppliers where it has been possible to do so. The main contractors of the development, Elliott Group, have also facilitated local work experience students and continue to engage with Worcester Community Trust and Whitehead Ross Education to provide training and work experience opportunities.
When complete, the £150 million investment in the revival of the City’s Shrub Hill area, will comprise hundreds of new apartments (including affordable housing), hotel, gym, multi-storey car park. food and beverage outlets and multiscreen cinema and ten-pin bowling. This huge project is a significant boost to the local economy bringing hundreds of jobs to the City and providing much needed housing for the people of Worcester and the opportunity for local people to get on the freehold ladder.
Phase 1 of the scheme is well underway for the first phase 213 apartments:
On both blocks, the precast concrete structure has been completed which can be seen clearly from its location on Shrub Hill. The roof on both blocks is now watertight and the project will soon see the installation of windows which will transform the façade of the project.
Inside, the fit out of the apartments is underway while the fit out of the communal areas will commence this week.