INDEPENDENT consultant Candice Pearson has been appointed to engage local stakeholders to discuss next steps over the Corn Exchange and Scala in the city centre.
It comes after members of the City Council decided to halt existing plans for the proposed renovation of the Grade II listed building.
Worcester City Council was awarded funding as part of the Government’s Future High Streets Fund to renovate these two historic buildings in Angel Street into a new 500-seat flexible theatre with complementary gallery space, as well as a café dining area.
Unfortunately, escalating costs meant the original project could no longer be completed within budget and so the Council is seeking views from stakeholders.
The authority’s joint leaders, Councillors Lynn Denham and Marjory Bisset, said: “We would like to hear from local leaders and influencers across all sectors, and especially the arts, with ideas for how to best fulfil the ambition to restore and bring back into economic use these two remarkable buildings.
“If that sounds like you, please head to www.scalaworcester.co.uk to get involved.
“Our aim is to create a vibrant destination venue that will enrich Worcester’s cultural scene, helping to increase footfall and bring new private sector investment into the area, in turn creating employment opportunities for local people.”
Ms Pearson said: “Significant funding is available to restore these two locally iconic buildings, offering an unrivalled opportunity to enhance the city’s cultural life, not to mention boost the local economy.
“I implore all dynamic teams and ambitious individuals with exciting ideas and viable business plans for how to make these buildings operational once again to join the conversation and perhaps make their dreams a reality.”
As well as one-to-one meetings, interested parties and business prospects can share their views via an in-depth survey available at www.scalaworcester.co.uk, as well as attend one of three public consultation events.
Tours of the site can also be arranged, and stakeholders can express their interest by contacting [email protected].
Under the original plans, Worcester Theatres were to operate the new Scala, while the Swan Theatre would have become a venue for community arts activities.
The Swan Theatre will now continue to operate in its current guise under the management of Worcester Theatres and has already confirmed its regular schedule for the foreseeable future, including several performances from the city’s many community theatre groups.
