A WORCESTER landmark is being torn down in preparation for redevelopment.

The former Kays site, in Bransford Road, St John's, Worcester, was once home to a thriving factory that employed thousands of local people.

Now, developers Arndale Properties want to build housing on the 10-acre plot, which has been empty since workers were made redundant in February 2007.

Chris Hall, director of SJS Property Management, acting on behalf of Arndale, said: "As the buildings are no longer in use we have started to demolish them in preparation for redevelopment.

"An application for family housing has already been lodged with Worcester City Council."

In the past the council has indicated it would prefer the land to be used, at least in part, for industry.

Last month, popular proposals to build a railway station on the site were deemed unrealistic and scrapped.