Burrell Foley Fischer’s Worcester theatre faces re-think due to escalating costs

The London-based firm had designed a flexible venue for the local authority within the listed Corn Exchange and neighbouring Scala Theatre buildings in Worcester’s Angel Street in the city centre.

The new government-funded theatre project was set to replace the existing Swan Theatre, based nearby in The Moors and and to be operated by Worcester Theatres.

But the council halted plans for the project in July, after reporting a ‘dramatic increase in construction costs’, which had left the project £3.5 million short of funding.

The council has now said that, while escalating costs meant that the original project could no longer be completed within budget, it is ‘seeking views from stakeholders’.

It said ‘significant funding’ was still available to restore the iconic local buildings, and has called for ‘dynamic teams and ambitious individuals’ to come forward with ‘exciting ideas and viable business plans’ to bring them back into use.

BFF Architects said it was still working with Worcester City Council to develop a revised scheme.

Under the original plans, the former Scala Theatre was set to be refurbished and extended with a new three-storey block, former public toilets converted to a performance arts centre space, and the Corn Exchange converted into a neighbouring performing arts centre with a gallery and café.

The government awarded the council funding for the multi-million pound building renovation project from its Future High Streets Fund. But the plans had already been revised due to escalating cost pressures, and a report in December 2022 said ‘serious consideration’ was being given to scrapping it altogether.

BFF project director Helen Grassly said: ‘While construction inflation has put tremendous pressure on the Worcester arts venue budget, like many other publicly funded projects there is still an opportunity to bring these significant buildings back into public use as part of the regeneration of the Northern sector of the city.

‘BFF and the design team are currently working with Worcester City Council to develop a revised scheme which still delivers an attractive new venue, that will become a popular hub for culture, live entertainment and the arts community.’

The Swan Theatre, which would have become a community arts venue, will continue to operate under the management of Worcester Theatres for now.

Interested parties can share their views via a survey at www.scalaworcester.co.uk, or attend one of three public consultation events. Expressions of interest and site tours can also be arranged by contacting Scala@cp-pr.org.