Work to start on arson-hit complex

Work is to finally start on rebuilding a fire-ravage complex of shops, offices and flats in Coventry Street, Kidderminster.

The project seemed to have halted due to delays on an insurance payout but the all-clear for work to begin has been given, it was announced today.

Seven businesses and flats were hit by a suspected arson attack nine months ago and properties have been boarded up since but the owner of the properties, Brian Murdoch, said it may be 12 months before the shop at the centre of the fire could reopen.

"We will be building walls, ceilings, painting and doing the electrics but we are a long way from starting work on The Treasury card and craft shop that was at the centre of the fire. Next week it will be nine months after the fire which devastated the shops, offices and flats.

"Although we would hope to have many of the premises ready within three months it could take 12 months before The Treasury is back in business."

He is offering a £10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.