WORK is continuing apace on a gold-clad university health centre at a former newspaper office with the project now 'nearing completion'.

The Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Building in Hylton Road - the former offices of the Worcester News and Berrows Journal - is due to open this spring.

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Meanwhile, an application has been handed in for the University of Worcester signs as work proceeds and the finishing touches are placed on the building.

The former Berrows House, the old home of the Worcester News and Berrows Journal, is in the process of being transformed by the University of Worcester. A new cohort of nursing and midwifery students will start at the University in March and they will be amongst the very first students to use it.

Applications have gone in for external aluminium signs, weighing around 215kg, a non-illuminated totem sign and a non-illuminated post-mounted site map.

Worcester News: New: How the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson building in Hylton Road will look when finished New: How the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson building in Hylton Road will look when finished (Image: University of Worcester)

Gold cladding has now been fitted to the outside of the former offices and university leaders hope the new centre will be the gold standard when it comes to plugging the shortage of qualified healthcare professionals across the region.

Professor David Green CBE DL, vice chancellor and chief executive at the University, said: “We are pleased to say that the extensive refurbishment of the former Worcester News building is now nearing completion and we are looking forward to the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson building opening around Easter time.

"This striking transformation will provide outstanding facilities to educate health professionals, including those students starting their medical training with us in September. 

“We will welcome new cohorts of Nursing and Midwifery students to start at the University in March and they will be amongst the very first students to use this beautiful new facility.

"We have a few places left on both courses and would welcome applications from Worcester News readers with the ability and motivation to train for either of these two most worthwhile professions. 

“The development of the wider Severn Campus infrastructure is also well advanced with new cycle and pedestrian paths, parking and electric vehicle charging points installed.” 

The front of the building is now covered in glittering panels which contrast with the rather drab appearance of the original structure.

The building was the home of the paper until 2020 when its operations were moved to London Road.

During the work, the former newspaper office has been partially demolished, with a new structure and metal framework being put in to give the historic building a new lease of life.