A PLAN to create a new culture quarter through the multi-million pound refurbishment of the city's Victorian railway arches.

Worcester firm KKE Architects has submitted a planning application to Worcester City Council, on behalf of the University of Worcester, as part of the £4.5 million redevelopment known as The Arches.

If approved by the council's planning committee, six railway arches located between Worcester Foregate Street and the Hive would be converted in to studios and offices for local artists and creative businesses.

KKE’s designs also include a proposal to create a ‘performance’ Arch where a variety of musicians, actors and artists could stage informal performances and exhibitions.

A number of arches in the same vicinity have already been successfully converted and are now home to thriving small businesses including the Method Roastery, the Burger Shop and the Arch Rivals Pub.

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Councillor Adrian Gregson, chairman of Worcester’s Cultural Development Steering Group, said: “Real craftsmanship and pride went in to building Worcester’s Victorian railway arches and our proposals will completely preserve their unique character including the original exposed brickwork, which has such visual appeal."

Peter Knott, area director for Arts Council England, said: “This is an exciting and transformative time for Worcester, as the cultural development fund helps to build on the creativity that’s at the centre of the city’s future development and we are proud to support the city as The Arches project gets underway.

“We look forward to seeing this project bring people together as a community, create business partnerships and instil civic pride, with an array of festivals and opportunities to celebrate Worcester’s rich history and creative future.”

If approved in February, work would be expected to start in the spring.