Plans for an exciting new arts venue in the heart of Worcester city centre have been discussed at a Public Consultation event in the City’s Guildhall. This followed Worcester City Council's Policy and Resources Committee giving its approval for a planning application for the scheme, designed by Burrell Foley Fischer, to be submitted.
The new performance arts venue will include a 500-seat main theatre and auditorium, eating and drinking areas, and fully accessible entrances and facilities, suitable for wheelchair-users. The ambitious proposals will transform the Angel Place area, attracting world-class arts, music, and comedy acts to the Worcester, as well as giving a much-needed boost to local businesses. Subject to agreement of a business plan early next year, the eagerly anticipated arts centre – a revival of the historic Scala Theatre, Worcester's original 1920s cinema – will be managed by Worcester Theatres.
Helen Grassly, the BFF Project Director for the Arts Centre said:
“It’s a project we have fallen in love with, because the basic buildings in Worcester are just gorgeous. There is the original Scala building and the Grade II Listed Corn Exchange, which are sitting there currently unused but have such potential. It’s a very exciting project to work on and part of the regeneration of that part of Worcester.”
Councillor James Stanley, Vice Chair of Worcester City Council's Policy and Resources Committee, said:
"Worcester City Council recognises the immense contribution that the arts sector makes to our entire community, and we are keen to support and invest in that. I'm pleased that the proposed plans for the Scala redevelopment were so positively received at the public consultation and hope that bodes well for the planning process.
"Reviving the city's stunning 1920s cinema would bring a beautiful listed building back alive, while transforming the cultural offering of the region and attracting many thousands of new visitors to boost our economy."
Sarah-Jane Morgan, Chief Executive Officer at Worcester Theatres said:
"This is an exciting time for Worcester and for Worcester Theatres. Adding a new venue to our already-popular portfolio will enable us to offer additional programming and opportunities for cultural engagement for the city. We are really pleased to have heard so many affirmative comments at the public consultation."
The project was featured on BBC Hereford and Worcester and their report can be viewed on their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=869409534092256