Script Haven on Worcester High Street to temporarily close

Script Haven on Worcester's High Street will be closed on Sunday as it transforms its interior.

The store, which The Times rated as the third-best bookshop in the UK, will close for four days while staff work on expanding the inside of the shop.

Bespoke, purpose-built bookcases will be installed across the cafe's walls and its counter will be moved back six feet to allow more space.

Leena Batchelor, owner and former Worcestershire Poet Laureate, hopes moving the counter back will provide more room for performances, shelving, and displays.

Inside Script Haven at the moment. (Image: Script Haven)Flooring in the store also needs to be redone as the current laminate flooring is not fit for purpose. 

Ms Batchelor said: "It is very exciting - there is a bit of trepidation about being closed for that long, but we have a loyal customer base, and I believe they will come back to us.

"The shop is going to be completely transformed.

"It is very exciting to have this done, and it will be a much better experience for our customers.

"Some days, I have to pinch myself and wonder how this has happened so quickly.

"I think this is because we focus on independent artists and authors and provide a welcoming haven for everybody, whether they are creative or just want to sit in the corner to break away from the pressures of the day.

"That was my dream, and I get emotional because it is amazing.

"In seven months, we are where I wanted to be in, say, 18 to 24 months."

Since opening, Ms Batchelor said the business has been incredibly busy and now supports 150 authors and artists.

The immense popularity of the store had led the team to launch a crowdfunding appeal as major changes were needed to the venue to fit the growing demand.

Script Haven offers a platform for authors and artists, unique gifts, a café, second-hand book exchange and a community hub for various Worcestershire organisations. 

The store will reopen on Thursday at 2pm.