There is a ‘reasonable prospect’ that Wychavon District Council could take ownership of Evesham’s Riverside Centre this year, according to Councillor Mark Goodge. 

In November Wychavon District Council said it was ‘closer than ever’ to reaching a deal to take over the centre from the owner, PJK Investments, however a spokesperson for the company said they had not had any correspondence with the council. 

Updating Evesham Town Council from Wychavon District Council, Councillor Mark Goodge said: “At district level we have had confirmation that the UK shared prosperity fund allocation will continue for the next financial year.

“It ensures the funding remains in place for the riverside project as and when negotiations with the owner finally bear fruit.

“But obviously we are still waiting for the owner to finally decide to give up and let us take on that project.

“Some people here say it has been that far away for the past 30 years or so, but I do actually think there’s a reasonable prospect we will get it over the line this year although don’t quote me on that please.”

If Wychavon District Council is successful in taking over the centre it could be demolished and redeveloped.

The Riverside Centre made national headlines at Christmas when the Daily Mail claimed it was the saddest shopping centre in the UK.

Councillor Chris Day called the state of the centre ‘unacceptable’ in November.

In May 2024 the centre came under fire after leaves and bird excrement were pictured inside the building.

READ MORE – Confusion over the future of Evesham’s Riverside Centre

READ MORE – Damning pictures show the state of Evesham’s Riverside Centre

One resident, who visited the centre in early January, said: “It’s a health hazard and I can’t believe it’s got into this state.

“It’s a mark on the town. 

“There were hundreds of bottles strewn across the stairs and it looked like they were covered in urine.

“We tried to use the lift but what I can only describe as faeces was in the corner. 

“Also, when it rains puddles form and there are not any wet floor signs.”

Corbally Group who manage the Riverside Centre have been approached for comment in regards to these allegations but have not responded. 

However, in November, a spokesperson for the company said: “We have not received any correspondence from Wychavon Council, so we cannot comment on to whom or where they have allegedly been writing to.

“We have nothing further to comment regarding the Riverside Centre in Evesham at this time.”