Major work to transform Worcester's Arches into cultural quarter has started

Five railway arches located between Worcester Foregate Street and the Hive will be refurbished and converted into studios and workspaces for local artists and creative businesses.

The work is expected to be finished in early 2022.

The Arches project, headed up by the Worcester Cultural Partnership – comprised of Worcester City Council, the University of Worcester, Severn Arts, The Arch Company and Worcestershire County Council – aims to transform the area into a modern workplace for creative industries and a cultural destination for tourists and local communities.

The huge project has been awarded more than £3 million in funding from the Cultural Development Fund, which is administered by Arts Council England.

The funding will also be used to create a new key gateway for the city, with a foot and cycle path created following the line of the Victorian arches, linking Worcester Foregate Street railway station to The Hive and the River Severn.

David Broster, Head of the School of Arts, who is leading on the project for the University of Worcester, said: “As a university we are committed to making a difference in the local community and enhancing what the city has to offer for the benefit of all.

“We are excited to see work moving ahead on the Arches project and look forward to seeing this iconic structure, part of Worcester’s Victorian past, transformed into a hub of creativity and culture for the city, providing excellent opportunities for both our students and the wider community.”

Disruption is expected with occasional closures of pedestrian routes between Croft Road and the city centre on weekdays – especially during the next few weeks – but it will remain open over the Bank Holiday weekend.

A number of arches have already been successfully converted in recent years and are now home to a number of restaurants and businesses.

A leadership and entrepreneurial skills programme is being developed to encourage graduates and others move into employment and business start-ups.

A team has also been founded to deliver festivals and cultural events across Worcester and will support festival organisers, encouraging skills development and volunteer opportunities in the creative industries.

Andrew Round, corporate director at Worcester City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see construction starting on site at the Arches. As well as generating a new creative hub for the city, this initiative will also improve links between the city centre and the River Severn.

“In addition to this refurbishment, Worcester has been awarded a further £17.9 million from central government to regenerate Angel Place.

"This will see the creation of a new theatre and performing arts venue less than five minutes’ walk from the Arches. Together these developments will considerably strengthen Worcester’s cultural offer, transforming the northern part of the city and increasing footfall in the area.”

Matthew Bailey, small works manager at Speller Metcalfe, said: “Speller Metcalfe is delighted to be part of a project that will breathe new life into the arches, as well as create valuable space for local artists and businesses.

“As a Worcestershire-based contractor, we also welcome the opportunity to create employment opportunities for trades and suppliers from the local area throughout the build.”