ONE of Worcester's oldest buildings has moved a step closer to being brought into the 21st Century with improved disabled access.

A planning application has been lodged by the city council to add a lift and ramps to The Guildhall.

If the plans are approved, it will be the first time in its 280-year history that the whole building has been accessible to the public.

"The aim of the improvements is to make the whole building accessible so all the people of Worcester can use all parts of the most prestigious civic building in the city," said principal planning officer Paul O'Connor.

The work could form part of a bid for heritage Lottery funding to add a museum or arts facility, along with a new Tourist Information Centre and caf, to The Guildhall.

Council officials are hoping the lift and ramps will be installed by the summer ahead of new disability discrimination legislation that comes into force this October.