WORCESTER’S deputy mayor has launched an attack on the scruffy-looking shops and buildings he feels are dragging down the look of the city.

Members of Worcester City Council’s planning committee applauded the comments of Tory councillor Andy Roberts, who handed out ‘name and shame’ photographs of shabby city centre buildings which he believes are letting the rest of Worcester down.

The Laura Ashley store and TJs Bar on Broad Street, Worcester’s fire station, Copehagen Street, and Elgar House, Shrub Hill, were among the properties he said were in urgent need of sprucing up.

Coun Roberts, himself a former fire officer, told the committee: “There are examples around the city of great places – and then there are shops and premises which are not pulling their weight.

“They’re just not doing what is necessary – the odd lick of paint could make a great improvement.

“I’m not suggesting we fire up a massive enforcement team – I’m asking the planning committee to endorse this and just get these people to come on board with the work this council is doing.”

His words were supported by members from all sides of the council chamber.

His Conservative colleague Aubrey Tarbuck said: “I agree with what Andy has said, particularly regarding the stretch around Angel Place. I think the market is an eyesore, and some of the shop fronts have not lent themselves to attracting visitors to the area. In some parts the city looks pretty run down.”

And Independent councillor Mike Layland added his support, saying: “I’m sure the publicity this generates have an immediate effect. But I think the biggest eyesore of all is the fire station - that’s in desperate need of a lick of paint. Surely they should be setting an example?”

In response to the councillors’ comments, a spokeswoman for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue told your Worcester News: “We’re happy to speak to councillors to discuss their concerns. We do always have to consider our budget and prioritise the maintenance work we carry out - however, we are discussing the possibility of refurbishing Worcester fire station.”

Even more positive was the response of the new owners of TJs Bar, the Crown Estate.

Head of regional portfolio Jim Yates said: “We only bought TJs last month, but we’re now planning to refurbish the building and restore it to its former glory.”

The owner of Elgar House, property company Brook Henderson, said it too has big plans for its run-down property.

Property director Rob Whiting said: “We’ve been in discussions with the planning officers at the city council, though it’s very early days yet. We want to make it something Worcester can be proud of.”

Laura Ashley’s head office in London declined to comment.