NEW designs show how the Scala will be refurbished to create a new arts centre for Worcester.
The plans also show the Corn Exchange with its mezzanine level brought back into use - and a walkway joining the two buildings.
Planning permission for the multi-million pound renovation project was given by the city council earlier this year.
Those plans didn’t include bringing the Corn Exchange’s mezzanine level back into use for cost reasons.
But more than £2 million of Levelling Up funding has since been earmarked for the Scala project - including £1.6m for the Corn Exchange mezzanine.
Revised plans said: “This fantastic Grade II Listed building adjacent to the Scala Theatre will be minimally adapted to form a new food and beverage offer to support the arts centre.
READ MORE: Look inside Worcester’s Scala Theatre and Corn Exchange
READ MORE: Scala business plan approved by Worcester City Council
“The Angel Street and Crown Passage frontages will be reanimated, and access will be improved. A new open stair and walkway will be erected and the approved platform lift will allow public access to both sides of the existing mezzanine, allowing the public to experience the totality of this heritage asset for the first time in decades.
“The alterations required to make the first floor publicly accessible will reverse several modern, detrimental additions to the Corn Exchange.”
New cross-sections show both a west and east mezzanine in the Corn Exchange.
The building will be connected to the Scala via Crown Passage but also by a new walkway at mezzanine level, which will connect to a lobby area in the Scala.
The plans also show how the Scala will be laid out, with new foyer and lobby areas at the front of the venue including an accessible entrance from Angel Place.
Also visible are the venue’s three main auditoriums. The Stage, which will feature retractable seating, is at the back of the building.
Also on the ground floor is The Box, which will provide a multi-use space for arts groups, digital projects and exhibitions.
Upstairs will be The Screen, which is likely to show independent and arthouse films.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel