THE CORN Exchange in Worcester is set to be brought back to life thanks to £1.73 million in government funding.
The investment will allow the vacant building in Angel Street to be refurbished as a base for Scala arts centre’s food and drink sales, and also as an additional performance space.
It comes as phase two of the arts centre scheme.
It will open alongside phase one of the project – the refurbishment of the neighbouring former Scala cinema as a new centre for live performance, independent film, music and more – in autumn 2026.
Leader of Worcester City Council, Coun Lynn Denham, said: “Worcester was one of only a small number of places to receive Cultural Funding from the Government to help improve economic and social outcomes.
“The development of the Corn Exchange will ensure that Scala arts centre will be able to offer the complete experience when it opens next year. This means that visitors will be able to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat before a night of music, comedy, film or other entertainment in the heart of Worcester.
“It’s another piece in the jigsaw of this fantastic initiative that will change the character of Angel Street and Angel Place, making it one of the most attractive destinations in our city.”
The government has also provided £370,000 for the refurbishment of 6 Angel Place, next to the Scala building. The former party shop is currently being used as a base by construction contractor Speller Metcalfe, which is carrying out the refurbishment work. The extra funding will allow it to be converted into an office space for Scala and a co-working space for local creatives.
A further £233,000 of funding will be used to create an outdoor performance and social space in Angel Place, in front of the main Scala building.
Scala will be run by a new Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), with five founding trustees having just been appointed. When it opens next year, the new arts centre will be a place where people can come together to enjoy, imagine, and cultivate a more creative future for the city. Scala will offer live performance, independent film, music, talks, digital experiences, dance, workshops, exhibitions, festivals and special events.
Visit www.scalaworcester.co.uk for more details.
