Following a number of difficulties, the plans for a major cultural project at the Ikea building seem to be back on track.
The plans to transform Coventry’s old IKEA into a cultural hub have been given a £5m boost. The project is one of several across the country to receive a slice of over £47 million of government funding.
The plans to transform the old IKEA building into a new ‘new cultural and visitor’ attraction in the city have been given a £5m boost. The project has suffered a number of stumbling blocks including the collapse of the original contractor in September last year.
It meant that the city council was forced to take back control of the building and, in doing so, pick up the costs. Earlier in February, the council revealed a new firm has been found to take on the job after a “thorough” review of bids.
Now the project has been given the investment boost as part of the government’s Plan for Change – which it says focuses on creating jobs and in some cases building new homes.
In a statement, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “Every corner of the UK has something unique to offer, and our rich creative capital must not be underestimated. Our Plan for Change promises growth for every region and I’ve seen first-hand how these projects are igniting growth in their communities.
“Through investing in these critical cultural projects we can empower both local leaders and people to really tap into their potential and celebrate everything their home town has to offer. This means more tourism, more growth and more money in people’s pockets.”
Since 2020, the council has been working with partners including the Arts Council to transform part of the building into a national collections centre.
There are also aims for Coventry University to rent some floorspace and open a public cafe and gallery and for the building’s lower floors to be rented out. A new public entrance will be created to the South East corner of the building, which will act as the building’s public reception and foyer.