Refurbishment work on Worcester's historic Corn Exchange is due to begin in April after approval by Worcester city councillors.

The Grade II-listed venue, closed since 2013, will form part of the new Scala arts centre, featuring a glass‑vaulted space with capacity for 200 people and operating as a hub for food, drink and entertainment.

Worcester City Council will award a £2.6 million construction contract to local firm Speller Metcalfe Malvern Limited, which is already progressing the overhaul of the main Scala building next door. The Council’s Policy and Resources Committee signed off the scheme at a meeting on 24 March, with the construction programme scheduled to run from April to November.

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This second phase of the Scala project could proceed after Government funding was confirmed, with designs and costings now in place. The overall scheme will revive two important heritage buildings and is intended to spur wider regeneration in this part of the city.

The main Scala building in Angel Place will provide three studio spaces. The adjoining Corn Exchange on Angel Street will add a further performance area alongside food and drink, while Angel Place will also host a new outdoor events space. The Committee additionally approved the refurbishment of 6 Angel Place to create co‑working facilities for Scala staff and other creatives.

Mark Hudgeon, regional director at Speller Metcalfe, said: "We're delighted that works are getting underway at the historic Corn Exchange. Scala is already shaping up to be a fantastic arts space, and the addition of the Corn Exchange will further enhance it, creating a strong cultural venue that will benefit both the Worcester community and the wider region."

The Scala programme is backed by Government funding alongside Worcester City Council investment. Initial regeneration support came via the Future High Streets Fund, with this phase supported by a Government Cultural Funding grant and additional Council contributions.

Crown Passage, linking Angel Street and Broad Street, will be closed for part of the construction period, with the agreement of the Crown Hotel.