Work for new arts centre entering fit out stage

Hannah Phillips, Lee Wood and Kitty Ross were pictured on scaffolding in the Scala

Most of the structural work on a new arts centre has been done and work was now entering the fit out stage, contractors said.

The Scala site in Worcester operated as a cinema for more than 50 years before closing its doors in 1973.

Work to put a new permanent roof, under a temporary roof, on the listed building has been taking place. Construction bosses said the multi-million project was "currently on track" and the temporary roof could come off in October.

Since the cinema closed, the site has been used as a leisure centre, a restaurant, a retail space and a slot machine arcade.

In January, the city council said the new Scala would be comprised of three main spaces - one for live performances, one for films, live broadcasts and talks and another for workshops, courses and "digital experiences".

Construction bosses said the multi-million project was "currently on track"

Lee Wood, senior project manager for contractors Speller Metcalfe, said Scala's terrazzo flooring was being kept and replicated throughout the building, including the brass strips used to stop the polished concrete from cracking.

A terrazzo staircase in the lobby is encased in wooden boards to protect it during the construction process.

The white temporary roof, seen here above the permanent roof, could come off in October, contractors Speller Metcalfe said

Frescos on the first floor, thought to be originals from the 1920s, have been uncovered from beneath layers of wall coverings.

These will now be stabilised and sealed, so future visitors can see them in their current condition.

Frescos will be preserved for visitors to see

Hannah Phillips, an interim creative director for Scala alongside Kitty Ross, said: "It's exciting to see the building coming to life.

"As we see the arts centre beginning to take shape, it enables us to imagine, and invite a community to respond creatively.

"Our vision has always been for Scala to be a creative space for everyone to enjoy."

It was due to open in the autumn next year, it was reported in January.

Additional reporting by Andrew Dawkins.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.