Speller Metcalfe announced as contractor for major Malvern Theatre’s expansion
Speller Metcalfe are delighted to announce that we have been appointed by Malvern Hills District Council for the works on the landmark £20 million redevelopment of Malvern Theatres which will begin in January and mark the start of one of the district’s most ambitious cultural projects.
The groundbreaking project, which has secured £20 million in funding from the UK Government’s Local Regeneration Fund (formerly known as the Levelling Up Fund), will deliver a world-class cultural facility in the Malvern Hills District.
The project is being led by Malvern Hills District Council in partnership with Malvern Theatres and local contractors Speller Metcalfe. Design work has been carried out by the renowned theatre architects Burrell Foley Fischer.
The state-of-the-art development, scheduled to open in late 2027, will feature a modern 240-seat studio theatre, new workshop spaces, and significant improvements to the Forum Theatre, enhancing both accessibility and audience comfort.
An upgraded park-side entrance will further improve access from the park, incorporating better-spaced stairs, additional handrails, improved lighting, and a new lift. In addition, a small community amphitheatre will be added, providing a versatile space for local events and performances.
The redesigned auditorium will allow the theatre to present new types of work, including more community theatre programmes, as well as additional classes and workshops. The development is projected to generate hundreds of construction jobs, boost the local economy, and establish the town as a destination for world-class performing arts, serving audiences for generations to come.
Cllr John Gallagher, Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resources at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “This is an incredibly exciting moment. Seeing work begin on the ground makes our vision feel tangible. This theatre will be a powerhouse for creativity, learning, and entertainment, and we can’t wait for the community to watch it take shape brick by brick.”
Fred Moroni, Executive Director of Malvern Theatres, added: “This project will be transformative not only for Malvern Theatres but for the entire region. We are delighted that the theatre will be even more accessible for our visitors, and the new Studio Theatre will allow us to offer more community theatre, not to mention family shows and new writing.”
Mark Hudgeon, divisional director at Speller Metcalfe added: “Being appointed by Malvern Hills District Council to deliver the refurbishment of Malvern Theatre is a fantastic opportunity for us. With our roots in Malvern, this project is especially meaningful, and we’re excited to get started and see the positive impact it will have on our community.”
To assist with the works, Grange Road North Car Park will be closed throughout the course of the project. Further announcements, including traffic management updates, community engagement events, and opportunities to go behind the scenes, will be shared as construction progresses. Visit www.malvern-theatres.co.uk/the-next-phase3/ for more information about the project and to stay up to date with its progress.