ONE of Worcester’s biggest eyesores is set for a new lease of life after its new owners submitted plans for a radical revamp.

TJs Bar has stood boarded up and dilapidated on the corner of Broad Street and Angel Place for more than six months but now there are plans to transform it into a shop or coffee bar.

As your Worcester News revealed earlier this week, the empty pub was criticised by city councillors as one of a handful of city centre buildings whose appearances are letting Worcester down.

But last month, the grade II listed property was bought by The Crown Estate, the developer which owns Worcester’s CrownGate Centre, and the firm has now submitted plans for a much-needed makeover. A spokesman for the Crown Estate said TJs “has long been seen as a blight on the streets of Worcester”.

He said: “The proposed refurbishment includes roof repairs, window and joinery repair and replacement work, full external redecoration and a strip-out of the internal areas. As the building is listed, a sympathetic approach to its repair has been necessary. Detailed discussions are ongoing with the local conservation officer to protect and maintain the character of the building.”

The Crown Estate eventually hopes to let the building as a shop or a coffee bar, rather than returning it to its former use as a pub. If planning permission is granted, it is hoped repair work could be completed before Christmas.

Plans are also being drawn up to replace the huge and highly distinctive mural on the side of the building with a new piece of art more appropriate to Worcester’s heritage.

TJs was picked out for criticism recently by Worcester’s deputy mayor, Andy Roberts, when he was highlighting some of the shabby buildings he feels are spoiling the look of the city centre. Coun Roberts said this week he was delighted a revamp could now be on the cards.