A multi-million-pound bid to bring a “beautiful” listed building in Worcester back to life has been backed by councillors.

The former grade II-listed Engine Works in Shrub Hill Road in Worcester would be transformed into “landmark” office and creative workshop space as part of a £20 million council bid to the government.

The 7,000 square metre building, which is more than 150 years old, is said to be in a “very poor state of repair” and the roof, which often leaks, would be replaced if the money is approved.

The council’s policy and resources committee backed the bid, which also contains plans for new and upgraded facilities at Nunnery Wood Sports Centre including a resurfaced running track and a new grandstand at Worcester Racecourse, at a meeting in the Guildhall on Monday (July 4).

Cllr Marc Bayliss, leader of Worcester City Council, said that the work at the former Engine Works in Shrub Hill would ‘compliment’ other improvements projects in the area

“We are spending £10 million at Isaac Maddox House, and there’s the county council’s proposal for Shrub Hill improvements and active travel, linking ultimately to the station, and also this project at the Engine sheds,” he told the committee.

“Anyone who has been in Worcester for a long time will sort of drive past in an instant but when you actually bother and go round the back and see the size and scale, they are beautiful buildings but in a real state of disrepair.

“This is real heritage that we have got to do something about. It’s an excellent project.

“If it brings it into modern economic use with new units, I think that is great news.”

In May, councillors backed a £10 million business case which would see former ageing NHS offices Isaac Maddox House in Shrub Hill Road become a new business hub.

The redevelopment plan for the neighbouring canal-side site also includes new housing and a walking and cycling route from Shrub Hill to St Martin’s Quarter.

On Tuesday, it was revealed that Worcester had been left off a government shortlist to become the home of the new Great British Railways headquarters.