Renovation signifies start of Creative Quarter

Councillor Chris King, pictured with Ian Gathard from the Cogent Group and developer Emma Harrabin, said the space had been "brought back to life"

Developers have said the completion of a £5.5m building renovation project signifies the start of a town's Cultural Quarter.

The Grade II listed United Reformed Church on Spencer Street, Leamington Spa, was overhauled as part of a wider cultural and digital hub development.

The formerly "neglected" building, renamed The Fold, has been let to marketing agency Cogent.

Developer Ian Harrabin called the transformation "incredible".

Funded by the Future High Streets fund and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), adjacent former nursery and dole office buildings were also refurbished as part of the scheme.

Mr Harrabin, managing director of Complex Development Projects (CDP), said the opening of the The Fold signified "the start of the creation of the Cultural Quarter".

"This is a tangible difference for everyone to see and make the most of,” he said.

"We have spent around £5.5m bringing the Grade II listed United Reformed Church and the other buildings back into use and the transformation is incredible."

The town's 10-year Cultural Quarter plan, in partnership with Warwick District Council, aims to renovate buildings for arts organisations and gaming and digital businesses.

Deputy council leader Chris King said he was confident the creative community would "thrive" in the newly-created space.

"It’s really impressive to see a previously neglected and underutilised building transformed... with multiple uses and great commercial potential," he added.

The Fold consists of open-plan office and meeting space, with studios and hot desks available to hire.

Ian Gathard, CEO of the Cogent Group, said he felt "lucky to work" in the historic building.

"Another dimension which sets The Fold apart is the professional standard green screen and recording studios, which is something Leamington’s creative community sorely needs,” he said.