PERFORMING ARTS
Scala ARTS CENTRE
CLIENT: WORCESTER CITY COUNCIL
LISTED GRADE II
A new performance arts venue at the heart of the revamp of the northern end of the city centre. The £8m Scala project is being delivered by Worcester City Council, with support from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund. It will be created within the existing Grade II Listed Corn Exchange in Angel Street and the adjoining locally listed Scala cinema building. Allowing the Corn Exchange to reopen for public use and the cinema to return to its original purpose as one of the city’s main entertainment destinations.
When it opens, Scala will offer three main spaces - The Stage for live performances and other workshops; The Screen for films, live broadcasts, and talks plus, thanks to retractable seating and a spring floor, dance and exercise; and The Box for new and exciting digital experiences, workshops, courses and classes. The facilities at Scala will also be available for private hire. The neighbouring Corn Exchange, in Angel Street, will be regenerated as part of a second phase of the scheme and will provide food and drink facilities, and additional workshop and performance space.
The project has taken multiple turns responding to budget constraints and community voices. Now settled as creative arts hub with a newly formed creative consortium of local arts providers, BFF’s approach has been:
To work with, rather than against, the fabric of the building and look for potential synergies with consortia members aspirations in the existing spaces;
To prioritise stabilisation and safe access over complex technical installations;
To design to support future enhancement once budget allows.
One of our key roles in this project has been to clarify and present the potential of this pair of dilapidated buildings to garner political and community support.
“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. 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.”
“Preserving Heritage While Embracing Modernity
The Scala project balances preserving the building’s historic significance and equipping it for contemporary use. Once completed, the venue will feature modern amenities to support its role as a cultural hub while maintaining its connection to Worcester’s architectural and social history. As cities across the UK strive to revitalise their high streets and local economies, Worcester’s approach highlights the potential of cultural investments to drive regeneration. ”
“A Model for Future Cultural Investment
The redevelopment of the Scala building is a prime example of how public funding, local expertise, and community collaboration can be leveraged to create transformative cultural spaces. For those in the visitor experience and attractions industry, the project offers valuable insights into how heritage sites can be repurposed to meet modern needs while fostering community engagement.”