Four of the arches have now been converted into studios and workspaces for both local artists and creative businesses and a fifth is able to be used as performance space.
The project for the city centre landmark has been carried out by Worcester Cultural Partnership and was made possible following The Arches – Worcester initiative was granted over £3 million in funding via the Cultural Development Fund, which is controlled by Arts Council England.
Worcester City Council, the University of Worcester, Severn Arts, The Arch Company and Worcestershire County Council make up the Worcester Cultural Partnership and as well as overseeing The Arches redevelopment are also handling several public realm redevelopment projects and a programme of festivals.
Shane Flynn, Chair of The Arches – Worcester Board, said:
“The Arches – Worcester is all about creating a new cultural hub and destination for the city. These refurbished arches will provide much-needed creative and performances spaces, bringing life and vibrancy to an area that was previously neglected and overlooked.
“We're delighted with the look and feel of the new buildings which should be ideal for the purpose.”
The live railway track which runs over the top of the arches and also the need to allow for public access requirements has meant that the project has faced many challenges but despite these difficulties, it has been remarked as being a huge success following its handover this month.
Malvern-based contractor Speller Metcalfe carried out the refurbishment work for The Arches and have worked on many developments in Worcester over the years such as The Michael Baker Boathouse for King's School and the new plaza development at Cathedral Square.
Joint managing director, Andy Metcalfe, said:
“As a Worcestershire contractor, many of the team who worked on the scheme are from Worcester and the surrounding areas, so it has truly been a ‘local' project in every sense of the word, and we are delighted to be part of a project that has helped support the reinvigoration of a historic Worcester landmark.”
After the open days held earlier in February, positive interest in leasing the spaces has been shown by a number of local artists and businesses.
