THE £1.35 million refurbishment to return Stourport’s civic centre to community use has been agreed.

Planning approval has been granted for the application made by Worcestershire County Council and Stourport Town Council, proposing a change of use from civic offices and hall to mixed use, including a library, the Coroner’s service, business starter units and other facilities, as well as a lift and cycle shelter.

Councillor John Campion, county council cabinet member for transformation and commissioning, said: “Residents will be able to access a range of services in a single location within a modern, energy-efficient building.

“This project is a great example of three councils working together to make the best use of our buildings.”

County councillor Rob Adams, chairman of the planning and regulatory committee, said the move would create “vital cost savings.”

He added: “The project has unanimous support and will benefit the whole of the Wyre Forest district.”

The district council will pay £507,000 to refurbish the Civic Hall and the county council will contribute £1.2 million to the £1.35 million Civic Centre upgrade. The County Buildings, in Worcester Street, home to the library and Coroner’s court, will be go on sale for about £500,000.

Refurbishment will likely begin in spring, to be completed later this year.