The development of a state-of-the-art new arts venue in Worcester has taken its next steps after a planning application was submitted by the council.

Worcester City Council has presented the revised scheme for a new performance and creativity hub in the city, with hopes of breathing new life into the historic Scala and Corn Exchange buildings in Angel Street.

This follows extensive discussions with key stakeholders in the city's arts and creative circles.

The project is set to be funded by a portion of the city’s £17.9 million share from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.

The planning application is available for public view and comment, and can now be found online (www.worcester.gov.uk/planning), named application 24/00006/FUL.

The council's joint leader councillor Lynn Denham said: "These plans set out a vision to refurbish these lovely old buildings into a multi-use arts and performance venue in the northern quarter of our city centre.

"We have worked with local arts organisations to create a new hub for film screenings, live performance, dance, rehearsals and much more."

Fellow joint leader councillor Marjory Bisset said: "These new plans for the Scala and Corn Exchange buildings have come directly out of our recent independently led stakeholder consultation, which helped to identify opportunities to improve the range of Worcester’s current arts facilities.

"I’m delighted to say that we’re now in a position to make use of those insights, creating a venue that will attract new audiences and allow arts and entertainment to thrive in our city."

Architects Burrell Foley Fischer drafted the plans for the two buildings, which include a live performance area with seating, a screening studio, and a flexible space for rehearsals and dance shows.

There are also proposals for a cafe, bar, dining area, and gallery space for the new venue.

The council has joined forces with seven arts groups from the area to formulate the plans, which will contribute to finalising management and operational arrangements for the new venue.

Worcester residents are invited to share their comments on the application now at www.worcester.gov.uk/planning.