A YEAR on from the first glimpse inside the transformation of the city's former Debenhams store - and there are still no signs a fancy food hall is set to open.

The picture of the glitzy bar area was the first time Artisan Foodhall shared a peek at what people can expect.

But a year on and despite captioning the image "It’s close folks", there is still no opening date or even signs of work continuing at the High Street building.

READ MORE: Timeline of work at Artisan Food Hall at Debenhams

After months of speculation, the company claimed work on the site had ground to a halt because the building owners had not made a final payment for the work.

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

However, with spring turning to summer there is no sign of an official opening date and the exterior of the building has become a magnet for graffiti.

The building owner was confirmed as an overseas offshore investor managed by a London agent.

Artisan Food Hall had been unable to contact it and neither has Worcester News despite repeated attempts.

READ MORE: Will Red Arrows fly over Worcester?

Plans for the food hall were first confirmed back in April 2021, which was originally tipped to be a nine-month transformation project of the former Debenhams store.

Ambitious plans revealed a paradise for foodies and shoppers spread over four floors.

As well as the bar area, the ground floor was set to feature baristas, sushi, an Italian deli, a bakery and a variety of other food vendors.

The first floor was earmarked for Canteen Society with plans to open between Friday and Sunday and for pop-up chefs and creators to fill the space.

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

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

Shoppers were set to head for the basement which would feature Worcestershire vendors of items such as vinyl records, vintage clothing, and retro furniture.