IT’S Worcester’s most striking building – with distinctive gold cladding that can be seen for miles around.

And just over one year on from its big opening, all the stops are being pulled out to ensure the Hive looks its sparkling best.

Worcestershire County Council has been sending contractors to the site to clear away debris, pull weeds, clean out the guttering and give the building an all-round health check.

Workers have also been looking at the various floors inside the building to ensure the structure is still sound, as well as testing the lights.

The substantial MOT-style effort has also included masonry repairs to the grounds and re-levelling of some of the paving to make the outside look its best. It comes just two weeks after the £60 million library passed the one million-visitor mark, as well as one million books being issued to visitors.

And bosses say maintenance work will take place on a yearly basis to keep the landmark in tip-top condition.

The county council’s Conservative leadership says the sheer popularity of the site means wear and tear is to be expected.

They also say the lifespan of the guttering will be extended as long as regular clean-ups take place, saving taxpayers’ money.

Councillor Adrian Hardman, leader of Worcestershire County Council, said: “We’ve been delighted with the wealth of support and enthusiasm from people all across the county for this site. “The Hive has been recognised internationally for its sustainable and inspiring architectural design and has helped to create a great amount of excitement and awareness.”

The Hive is a joint effort between the county council and the University of Worcester, which is also backing the spruce-up.

Professor David Green, Vice-Chancellor of the university, said: “Britain’s first university and public library is brilliant for our students while attracting and inspiring people throughout Worcestershire.”