A DERELICT Worcester nightclub which was severely damaged in an arson attack is up for sale.

The former Zig Zag nightclub, Smokestack pub and an adjoining empty shop in St John’s, Worcester, have been boarded up since arsonists struck in August 2007.

They have now been put up for sale by owners Sainsbury’s.

The supermarket giant bought the empty buildings when it first put forward plans to open a new store in St John’s.

But the new store, which opened in Swanpool Walk in March this year, did not incorporate the three empty buildings. Now they are all being sold for redevelopment through national property company Liggins Thomas.

A spokesman for Sainsbury’s and Liggins Thomas said: “The buildings have been on the market for a few weeks and there has been a considerable amount of interest already. We’re delighted and a decision will be made in due course.”

The asking price for the site is not known. The sale brochure says: “The premises formerly comprised a retail unit, the Smokestack public house and the Zig Zag nightclub, but were the subject of a fire which largely destroyed the buildings with exception of the frontage.”

Jon Orton, owner of neighbouring copy shop First Paige Printers, said it was about time the buildings were developed.

“These buildings have been sinking further into decay and ruin,” said Mr Orton.

“They have been empty for more than 10 years, plagued with fires, break-ins and damage.”

Up until 1959 the premises, which are opposite the junction with Bransford Road, housed St John’s cinema. It stood empty for two decades until the 1980s, when it re-opened as an entertainment complex.

It has had several names, including Picasso’s, Tanya’s and Zig Zag, before it closed for good and was bought by Sainbury’s.