THE reason behind delays to transform the former Debenhams into a food hall have been revealed.

Artisan Food Hall warned the delay has left "100 jobs and 50 contractors work" at risk - but are still hopeful for a spring opening.

The company claims work on the High Street site has ground to a halt because the building owners have not made a final payment for the work.

The building owner is an overseas offshore investor managed by a London agent.

Artisan Food Hall has been unable to contact it and Worcester News has also been unable to contact the investor.

A spokesperson for Artisan Food Hall said: "We should be open, it’s very frustrating for our team and financially damaging. 

"With over 100 jobs at stake and 50 contractors' works held in the balance, we are keeping our fingers crossed we will be open soon. 

"We are ready for a spring opening, albeit we said that last year. The food hall should be open, the project is fantastic for Worcester."

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Artisan Food Hall claims without the final payment it is unable to complete the work.

The spokesperson said: "The Artisan Food Hall team are experiencing a significant delay in relation to its opening date.

"Artisan and the on-site contractors cannot complete the dilapidation works or the owners infrastructure work without further payments to complete the work on behalf of the building owner, an overseas offshore investor managed by a London agent.

"The first two payments were made in line with the contract, the final payment has never arrived so we cannot complete the work. 

"Artisan has invested significant capital and management resources into the project since early 2021."

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Plans sent to the Worcester News by Artisan Food Hall show the project will consist of four floors, each with a unique layout.

The ground floor features a bar as well as areas for baristas, sushi, an Italian deli, a bakery and a variety of other food vendors.

The first floor is for Canteen Society, which plans to open between Friday and Sunday for pop-up chefs and creators to fill the space.

The second floor features a city garden and a space that can be hired for events, weddings, parties, and gigs every weekend.

There will also be a secret door leading to the 'speakeasy'.

The basement will be a space for vinyl records, vintage clothing, retro furniture, and areas for local vendors.

The partners are still under selection and can be finalised once an opening date has been set with the owners of the building.