KIDDERMINSTER residents and businesses are being invited to a public exhibition of the proposed plans to transform the former Magistrates Court in Kidderminster into a cultural and creative hub.

Architects, Burrell Foley Fischer, working in consultation with North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration (NWedR) on behalf of Wyre Forest District Council have submitted the planning application.

On Thursday, September 9, council officers and Burrell Foley Fischer representatives will be available between 3pm and 6pm at the exhibition on the Coronation Gardens to talk about the plans.

Councillor Helen Dyke, leader of Wyre Forest District Council said: “We are looking forward to progressing with the development of this site which is being made possible through The Future High Streets Fund (FHSF) – the Government funding initiative to transform struggling high streets.

“Kidderminster has been awarded £20.5 million from this fund and we have three major projects underway which are all part of our long-term vision.

“Our overall intention is to improve connectivity across town and redevelop key sites which are the former Crown House/Bullring area, Worcester Street and the Former Magistrates Court.”

The heritage building will provide office space for creative industries and businesses and the former carpet showroom will become a flexible studio and venue.

The former weaver sheds will be transformed into a multi-purpose space for event, festivals, temporary exhibitions and activities.

Aidan Ridyard from Burrell Foley Fischer said: “Burrell Foley Fischer are privileged to be working on this project which will create a unique public building, opening up the previously hidden spaces behind the 1879 façade of the original carpet factory, as a new home for the creative industries in Kidderminster and a new hub for the community.

It is anticipated that this application will be considered by the Planning Committee by the end of the year.