The Guildhall in Walsall is to be transformed after Walsall Council secured a grant of £3.7 million from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
The grant is part of a £30.2 million Cultural Development Fund provided by Arts Council England to help support and grow creative businesses and art, science and technology projects.
The Grade II listed building will become the Creative Industries Enterprise Centre (CIEC) and will feature a gallery space for exhibitions, conference facilities hosting a range of creative events, and a café.
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration Walsall Council said:
“This funding is a great endorsement of our continued work to drive innovation and regeneration across the Borough. Once known as the ‘Town of a 100 Trades’, Walsall’s rich creative heritage continues to this day. This project will champion Walsall’s unique offer and secure the area as a great place to live, work, visit and invest. “
The New Art Gallery, Urban Hax and Walsall Cultural Compact are involved in the project, who hope to continue Walsall’s push into becoming a centre of creative excellence.