Planning application for arts venue submitted
The planning application for a new arts venue in Worcester city centre has been submitted for approval.
If the submission is approved, the centre will revive the historic Scala Theatre, Worcester’s original 1920s cinema.
The renovation has been designed by architects Burrell Foley Fischer, who also designed the Hall for Cornwall, as well as the Crucible in Sheffield, among several other award-winning venues.
Mayor of Worcester Adrian Gregson said: “The proposed plans for a new arts centre for Worcester have now been submitted for approval. The suggested plans would see the revival of the city’s stunning 1920s cinema, with the aim of bringing back to life a beautiful listed building and transforming the cultural offering of the city, attracting many thousands of new visitors to boost our economy. I would encourage everyone to take a look at the plans and have their say as part of the planning consultation that is now underway.”
Sarah-Jane Morgan, chief executive at Worcester Theatres, said: “This is an exciting step forward for Worcester and for Worcester Theatres. Adding a new venue to our already-popular portfolio will enable us to attract new, diverse artists, acts and theatre companies to Worcester. We support Worcester City Council in their ambition to put culture at the centre of the FHSF redevelopment and we hope our audiences will be active in supporting the plans.”
The arts centre proposals are part of the Government’s Future High Streets Fund (FHSF), which includes £3.5m worth of public realm improvements to Worcester City Centre.
Funding for the proposed Scala development has been awarded through the FHSF programme. The council has submitted a request to reallocate additional funding to the Scala project and is awaiting government approval, which is expected imminently.
The council says it continues to explore additional funding opportunities for future phases of development.
The Swan Theatre will continue to operate for community theatre groups for the foreseeable future, with relevant user groups having suggested several design ideas for the Scala that were adopted by the architects.
