Council appoints architects for arts and theatre venue

Plans for a new performance arts and theatre venue in the northern part Worcester city centre have moved a step closer with the appointment of architects and consultants.

The council secured £17.9m from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund to revamp the area around Angel Place and Angel Street, and improvements are already underway to the pavements and environment of the area.

The plans will transform the Scala Theatre and Grade-II-listed Corn Exchange buildings into a performance arts venue for the city, alongside the broader revival of the area, including the currently empty building at 8 Angel Street, formerly a Co-op store.

Architects Burrell Foley Fischer have been appointed to design the new theatre and cultural hub, which will offer leading theatrical, music and performance facilities.

Specialist theatre consultants Theatreplan have also been appointed to work on the project. The council has appointed Equals Consulting as project managers and cost consultants.

David Blake, managing director of Worcester City Council, said: “It’s very exciting to be progressing this major investment in the northern part of the city centre. This project will stimulate economic growth in Worcester, creating a new city centre hub for theatre, music, comedy and more.

“The broader regeneration of the Angel Street and Angel Place area will also bring social, economic, and environmental benefits, alongside new living opportunities in the city centre and the enhancement of some of our city’s most striking historic buildings.”

The council has recently completed the acquisition of the Scala, following its purchase of the Corn Exchange and 8 Angel Street last year.

A planning application is expected to be submitted in the coming months.