Celebrating the heritage of Scala Worcester
A new era is dawning for one of Worcester’s most iconic landmarks, as the £9.6 million transformation of the historic Scala gathers pace – set to reopen as a vibrant, state-of-the-art performing arts venue at the heart of the city. Malvern based contractor Speller Metcalfe – working on behalf of Worcester City Council and alongside architects Burrell Foley Fischer – has led the redevelopment since January 2025.
Structural works are nearing completion, and the project is now entering the fit-out stage. A temporary roof covering has been installed and remains in place until the permanent roof is finished and unveiled in the Autumn of 2025. The restoration is revealing and preserving many of the building’s original architectural features while transforming it into a modern venue for live performances, independent film, music, talks, digital experiences, dance, workshops, exhibitions, festivals and special events.
Images courtesy of Spelller Metcalfe
Scala first opened as a cinema in 1922, giving the building more than a century of cultural history. It operated for over 50 years before closing its doors in 1973. In the decades that followed, the building housed a leisure centre, a restaurant, retail space, and even a bingo/slot machine arcade. Now, thanks to the Government’s Future High Street Fund, this ambitious project will create a major cultural facility for Worcester. It will comprise three main spaces: one for live performances, one for films, broadcasts and talks, and another for workshops, courses and digital experiences.
“An important part of this project, as requested by Worcester City Council, has been to carefully maintain and restore the building’s original features,” says Mark Hudgeon, divisional director at Speller Metcalfe. “Our team is focused on blending modern construction with careful preservation of Scala Worcester’s historic character. It’s exciting to uncover and protect these elements as the project progresses, knowing they will form the heart of the venue for the community.”
Some of the key heritage features being restored include:
Balustrades: The original balustrades, a hallmark of Scala’s character, are being restored to their former elegance, reinstating the intricate detailing that once defined the venue.
Cornices: Decorative plaster cornices along ceilings and stairways are being retained and restored wherever possible, preserving the building’s original grandeur.
Terrazzo flooring & staircase: Scala’s distinctive terrazzo flooring is being retained throughout the building, including brass strips designed to prevent cracking. The terrazzo staircase in the lobby is being carefully protected during construction so it can continue to welcome visitors for decades to come.
Frescos in the foyer: During renovation, previously hidden frescos were uncovered in the second-floor foyer, where they had been concealed beneath layers of paint for many years. These original artworks are now being stabilised and sealed, ensuring they can be preserved and appreciated by future visitors as part of the building’s artistic history.
Foyer windows: The foyer windows, notable for their circular design, are being fully restored to retain their unique character.
Terracotta façade: Restoration work is underway on the terracotta façade surrounding the circular windows, ensuring the exterior remains true to its historic charm while meeting modern structural standards.
By reinstating these original features, Scala Worcester not only celebrates its rich heritage but also sets the stage for a vibrant future as a centre for arts and culture.
Hannah Phillips and Kitty Ross, Interim Creative Directors for Scala added: “We love seeing the original architectural features emerge throughout the building and seeing Speller Metcalfe’s careful restoration. As we bring the building back to life as a creative arts venue it’s brilliant that we can showcase, and be inspired by, the creativity in the fabric of the building itself.”
As work continues on-site, Worcester City Council is reflecting on the importance of restoring this landmark for the city, and what it will mean for the local community.
Cllr Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council said: “It’s wonderful to see the historic features revealed through the Scala’s construction work. These show Scala’s past as a cinema which will have special memories for many people. The building has an exciting new future ahead. The refurbished building will make arts and culture more accessible to everyone in Worcester. This new venue will also play an important role in supporting people’s wellbeing, strengthening community connections, and enriching both mental and physical health.”
The reopening of Scala is scheduled for Autumn 2026, when the building will open its doors as an exciting new cultural hub for the whole community to enjoy.