Worcester’s railway arches transformation gets underway

Work has got underway on the transformation of Worcester’s railway arches into a new cultural quarter for the city.As part of The Arches – Worcester project, workers are now on site to refurbish and repurpose the Victorian arches, following the appointment of contractor Speller Metcalfe.An initial five railway arches located between Foregate Street Station and The Hive will be converted into studios and workspaces for local artists and creative businesses, with new electrical supplies, toilets and drainage being installed.A number of arches in the same vicinity have already been converted in recent years and are now home to a number of small businesses.The Arches – Worcester, being completed by the Worcester Cultural Partnership, has been awarded more than £3m in funding from the Cultural Development Fund, which is administered by Arts Council England.The partnership is made up of Worcester City Council, the University of Worcester, Severn Arts, The Arch Company and Worcestershire County Council.The funding will also be used to create a new key gateway for the city, with a foot and cycle path created following the line of the Victorian arches, linking Foregate Street railway station to The Hive and the River Severn.David Broster, head of the School of Arts, who is leading on the project for the University of Worcester, said: “As a university, we are committed to making a difference in the local community and enhancing what the city has to offer for the benefit of all.”We are excited to see work moving ahead on the Arches project and look forward to seeing this iconic structure, part of Worcester’s Victorian past, transformed into a hub of creativity and culture for the city, providing excellent opportunities for both our students and the wider community.”Matthew Bailey, small works manager at Speller Metcalfe, added: “Speller Metcalfe is delighted to be part of a project that will breathe new life into the arches, as well as create valuable space for local artists and businesses.”As a Worcestershire-based contractor, we also welcome the opportunity to create employment opportunities for trades and suppliers from the local area throughout the build.”