The demolition phase of the Priory Centre regeneration project is now complete, clearing the way for the construction stage to begin on time.
The main building that formed part of the original Netherholme Centre has been safely removed, with preparation work for the next phase of construction having already begun.
Visitors to Worksop Town Centre will be able to see progress on site over the coming months as a new building is constructed to host exciting facilities, including a climbing wall, indoor adventure play area, a bowling alley and more.
Existing public areas of the Priory Centre will also be refreshed and, following the announcement that Sports Direct has returned to the Priory Centre, work to attract further retail and leisure offers is moving at pace.
Cllr Julie Leigh, Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, said: “I’m delighted that this once-in-a-generation project for Worksop Town Centre is moving along as planned and on time.
“With demolition now complete, this paves the way for the really impactful and exciting part of the project – creating a new mix of entertainment, leisure and retail in a revamped Priory Centre. I look forward to sharing more details about this as further progress is made.”
The demolition phase of the project has been completed, with construction partners G F Tomlinson working hard to keep any impact on Priory Centre tenants and the public to a minimum. This includes much of the noisy and disruptive work being completed outside of peak visiting times, and regular discussions with tenants and the public to keep them informed of progress.
Much of the former building has also been recycled or reused after being separated and removed from site, with the footprint now clear for proprietary building work to begin.
All existing units that will form part of the new building are also being stripped, in addition to the removal of two trees and some shrubs opposite the centre to enable the installation of a bridge that will span the Chesterfield Canal.
Andy Sewards, Chairman at G F Tomlinson, said: “Completing the demolition phase marks a significant milestone for the Priory Centre regeneration project, and we’re pleased works are progressing to programme. Throughout this phase, our team has worked closely with Bassetlaw District Council, tenants and the local community to minimise disruption while safely delivering complex demolition and preparation works in a busy town centre environment.
“As activity increases over the coming months, people will begin to see the transformation of the site take shape, and we’re proud to be playing a key role in delivering a development that will create new opportunities for leisure, retail and social activity in Worksop town centre for the future.”
Stores that are currently part of the Priory Centre are open as normal, and pedestrians can still walk through the shopping centre, connecting the car park with Bridge Place and Ryton Street.
Vehicle access is still available from Bridge Place. However, the site compounds now occupy much of the parking area to accommodate further works and on-site storage.
Following a period of free parking at the Priory Centre, there will be a change in parking fees and conditions from Tuesday 26th May. Pay-and-display machines have been installed, along with new signage that will inform visitors of the new car parking charges and conditions, which have been brought in line with all other council-operated car parks.
Around 100 spaces are still available in the two-storey car park, including four disabled spaces, in addition to three disabled spaces in front of Costa.
