WORCESTER is in line for a renaissance that will make it a tourist magnet to rival Chester and York.

That was the message from city council leader Councillor Stephen Inman when he spoke of Worcester's bright future at a summit involving more than 100 decision-makers from across the Midlands.

The reason for his optimism was a slew of radical developments in the pipeline, including the expansion of University College Worcester, major housing developments and an ambitious riverside regeneration project.

"I believe a significant period of transformation that's nothing short of a renaissance is upon us," said Coun Inman. The city centre which is the focal point for our 95,000 citizens, as well as many more beyond, will be changed dramatically within the course of the next decade," he said.

Among the excitaing developments highlighted were Worcester Woods Business Park -an 11.5 hectare site with outline planning permission for employment use. Plans to transform the site of the former Ronks-wood Hospital, into a major office campus, creating at least 700 new jobs, were also outlined and public consultations are also to be held this month on plans for the 11-hectare Grove Farm site.

Coun Inman said other areas of interest included major housing schemes at Diglis basin and on former Worcester Porcelain works sites.

A £1m project to inject new life into the city's riverside walks and parks and a design competition to transform Cathedral Square are also on the cards.

Meanwhile, Tolladine Goods Yard is now on the market for employment use, while city chiefs are supporting a mixed use scheme for the re-use of the former vinegar works at Lowesmoor Trading estate.

Regional planners, transport chiefs, police and leaders from education were among the delegates at last week's meeting at UCW.

But, Coun Inman said UCW's expansion onto the old Royal Infirmary site in Castle Street - with a planned super-library in The Butts - would be at the centre of revitalisation.

"Worcester may be on the map, but we should become a beacon. No longer should motorists just drive past on the M5," he added. "Worcester regenerated is Worcester re-born - the renaissance is with us."