Developer to be appointed to build new creative quarter for Leamington

A developer to help create a new Creative Quarter in Leamington should be appointed in the next two months.
Spencer Yard, in the cultural quarter, Leamington.
Credit photo to The Lift Creative Services
www.theliftcreativeservices.comSpencer Yard, in the cultural quarter, Leamington.
Credit photo to The Lift Creative Services
www.theliftcreativeservices.com
Spencer Yard, in the cultural quarter, Leamington. Credit photo to The Lift Creative Services www.theliftcreativeservices.com

The opportunity for developers to bid for the £30 million scheme, which is designed to build on the town’s strengths as a centre of creative industries and national Silicon Spa reputation, has now closed.

The successful firm will work with Warwick District Council to restore and develop a section of Old Town including Spencer Yard and the Pump Room and create new spaces and facilities for creative industries which is also hoped to create around 300 jobs.

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Plans for the scheme were showcased at the MIPIM property show to an international audience last year before applications to tender were invited, and will be highlighted at this year’s event in March.

Bill Hunt, Deputy Chief Executive for the district council, said there had been significant interest from several developers, and added that the authority hoped to announce its preferred partner before the end of April.

“This is not a standard urban development project and it is vital that we choose the right partner,” he said.

“We are looking for the scheme not only to restore several key buildings but also to create a new gateway to the town as well as improve the routes and environment from the railway station to the town centre.

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“It involves high levels of restoration and refurbishment, but a suitable scheme will not only see those buildings brought back to life but will also aim to stimulate further investment.

“The town already has an international reputation for its creative and digital industries and we are continuing to see expansion and investment in those sectors so the timing could not be better for this work to take place.

“This area is in need of investment to re-establish its economic value, character, and functionality and we are moving firmly forward with that aim.”