Planning application submitted for former Magistrates Court in Kidderminster

A detailed planning application has been submitted to Wyre Forest District Council for the complete re-development of the former Magistrates Court in Kidderminster.

Architects Burrell Foley Fischer, working in consultation with NWedR on behalf of Wyre Forest District Council have submitted the application which will transform the Former Magistrates Court building in Worcester Street, Kidderminster town centre.

Plans for the site transform the space into a cultural and creative hub. The space provides a range of flexible work, performance and production spaces and co-working areas in the main buildings and historic former weaving sheds.

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.

Residents, businesses and visitors to the town will start seeing changes next year as all projects within the Kidderminster Future High Streets Fund remit are to be fully delivered by March 2024."

Aidan Ridyard (Worcester based) from Burrell Foley Fischer said:

“We 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. The historic Grade II Listed buildings will be retained and refurbished, giving them a sustainable future, as an integral part of the vision, supported by carefully designed new interventions which reference the town’s heritage.”

Councillor Helen Dyke concluded:

“Our remit for the former Magistrates Court redevelopment is that it provides an iconic yet affordable space that will be a magnet for the people of Kidderminster and a hub for creativity and innovation for many years to come.”

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