WORK to transform the Austin House into university arts facilities, including a refurbished clock tower, is gathering pace.

The University of Worcester is restoring and refurbishing the Grade II listed building into what will be known as The Art House, providing teaching and learning space as well as a further public exhibitions location.

Work on the distinctive clock tower, which carries the name University of Worcester, looks well underway.

Midlands-based contractors Stepnells are carrying out the work at the site, which began earlier this year.

A university spokesman told the Worcester News that internal refurbishment work is expected to be complete by autumn this year, with the building fully open for regular timetabled teaching from the beginning of 2019.

The art deco building, with clock tower, was originally designed and built in 1939 as a car showroom for Lord Austin of Austin Motors.