The planning application for Worcester's new Scala arts venue has been submitted, setting out an ambitious vision for a new performance and creativity hub in the heart of the city.
The City Council has drawn up a revised scheme to revive the historic Scala and Corn Exchange buildings in Angel Street, following extensive consultation with stakeholders in Worcester's arts and creative communities.
The project is being funded with part of the city's £17.9 million share of the Government's Future High Streets Fund, and the planning application can now be viewed and commented on.
City Council Joint Leader Councillor Lynn Denham said:
"These plans set out a vision to refurbish these lovely old buildings into a multi-use arts and performance venue in the northern quarter of our city centre. We have worked with local arts organisations to create a new hub for film screenings, live performance, dance, rehearsals and much more."
Fellow Joint Leader Cllr Marjory Bisset said:
"These new plans for the Scala and Corn Exchange buildings have come directly out of our recent independently led stakeholder consultation, which helped to identify opportunities to improve the range of Worcester's current arts facilities. I'm delighted to say that we're now in a position to make use of those insights, creating a venue that will attract new audiences and allow arts and entertainment to thrive in our city."
The plans, prepared by architects Burrell Foley Fischer, set out proposals to create a range of new facilities in the two historic buildings. These include a live performance area with flexible seating, a screening studio, and a flexible space for rehearsals and dance performances. In addition, the new venue will provide a new café, bar and dining area and gallery space.
The City Council has worked with seven local arts organisations to prepare the plans: Severn Arts; Dancefest; Mobilise Arts, a Worcestershire-based inclusive arts organisation; C&T applied theatre practitioners, technologists ,web designers and teachers; co-working facility The Kiln; and community cinema operator Vestan.
They will continue to be involved as plans for the management and operation of the new venue are developed and finalised.