Shakespeare Trust to turn empty Stratford-upon-Avon shop into community hub

The unit was formerly the Edinburgh Woollen Mill, a short distance from Shakespeare's birthplace

An empty shop unit is to be turned into a community and learning hub by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

The former Edinburgh Woollen Mill store in Henley Street in Stratford-upon-Avon could host tens of thousands of educational visits, the trust said.

Draft plans include a number of multi-use rooms inside the building, and the potential for a street facing gallery and exhibition space for artists.

Detailed plans are set to begin in earnest, the trust added.

The trust said it is also planning to work with community groups to explore other ways to use the space.

Stratford-upon-Avon District Council has awarded funding for the scheme through its Community Infrastructure Levy fund.

The proposals are part of the trust's wider museum transformation strategy to get more groups into the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon to explore Shakespeare's legacy.

Tim Cooke, CEO of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said: "The trust is committed to developing its presence and offering in Henley Street in ways which offer a great visitor experience, enable memorable learning events, and foster a strong sense of community and local participation."