AMBITIOUS plans to create a new cultural hub in Coventry city centre are set to take several significant steps forward in the coming months.
Detailed plans for the City Centre Cultural Gateway are to be discussed at a meeting of Coventry City Council’s Cabinet on Tuesday, March 12.
Subject to approval, construction work to transform the former IKEA building is set to start later this year and is scheduled to be completed by the next summer.
The project aims to create a large-scale cultural landmark with facilities for residents and visitors to the city to enjoy.
The refitted building will host everything from collections management facilities, artists’ studios and post-production filming facilities to galleries and a public café.
It is hoped the gateway could boost the economy by £185million in Gross Value Added for Coventry and the West Midlands over 10 years.
Coventry City Council’s cabinet member for housing and communities, Coun David Welsh, said: “This scheme will breathe new life into the city and despite the financial challenges this council, like all local authorities, currently face, and this demonstrates our commitment and ambition to continue to improve the city.
“It will be a positive transformation for our city as the building has boundless potential and we’re eager to showcase that together with our partners.”
Visit www.coventry.gov.uk/culturalgateway for more information.
