The Scala Theatre tops the list of big capital projects being funded by the city council in the next financial year.
Worcester City Council is also part-funding the Kepax Bridge, the continuing development of the Arches and housing adaptations across the city.
Some of the money comes from the council’s own funds, some is from Government grants. But it’s all public money.
The refurbishment of the Scala and Corn Exchange buildings is part of the wider redevelopment of Angel Street and the surrounding area.
According to the council’s 2024-25 Capital Strategy, which went before councillors last week: “Much of the investment is complete but the main focus in 2024-25 and 2025-26 will be the creation of the performing arts venue and the redevelopment of Angel Place.”
The document shows the city council is expecting to spend almost £10 million on completing the Scala project.
This, and the money being spent on ‘public realm’ improvements around the city centre, comes from the Government's Future High Streets Fund.
A further £10.5 million is being spent on projects including the county council-led Kepax Bridge scheme and a £1.8m investment in community centres.
This spending is covered by the £19.6m awarded to the council from the Towns Fund.
A £3m grant from the Arts Council’s Community Development Fund is allowing the city council to keep investing in the regeneration of the Arches.
Six railway arches have already been developed.
According to strategy: “The final stage is the opening of the walkway from Foregate Street down to the riverside by the demolition of 56 Foregate Street, which the council has acquired for the purpose.
“The council has made a contribution of £310,000 from its reserves to help finance this important development, which forms one of the key sites in the masterplan, and has contributed a further £300,000 to acquire associated assets.
“The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has contributed £1.733m of the capital funding through its Cultural Development Fund.”
Housing adaptations to the tune of £3.8m are taking place this year, funded by Disabled Facilities grants.
Worcester City Council says it is spending £4.4m on a “full renewal” of council-owned vehicles.
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