Architectural practice Turner.Works has recently announced that planning permission has been granted by the Isle of Wight Council for its transformation of the former Elizabeth Pack Department Store in central Ryde into a pioneering new centre for culture, community, and creativity.
The plans for the renovation and extension of the Grade II listed building include the delivery of creative workspaces, new retail outlets aimed at connecting local creatives with the public, display and performance spaces for both national professional, and community arts groups, and a new café.
The reimagined building has also been designed to host events and exhibitions that celebrate the rich cultural history of the island to attract both residents and tourists, and to foster collaborations between island creatives and those on the mainland.
Turner.Works’ designs for the building include repairs to the front of the building, refreshed signage, new windows, and contemporary decoration that still pay homage to the store’s heritage, a new terrace, an enhanced rear entrance that will encourage users of the car park to pass through the building and into the centre of Ryde, and an extensive re-design and reconfiguration of the interior.
The project has been driven by carnival arts group Shademakers, which enlisted the support of Turner Works on securing the Arts Council Capital Fund.
Suzi Winstanley, Director at Turner.Works and Project Director, said:
“We are delighted that our plans for the transformation of the former Elizabeth Pack Department Store have been approved by the council. These plans will revitalise a significant heritage building and reimagine it as a place for the community, which puts art, culture, and creativity at the heart of Ryde’s high street.
“Like many heritage buildings, this department store has had many uses in its lifetime, but it has always been a space for making, displaying, selling, hosting, and performing, so we are thrilled that our designs will ensure that it retains this use for future generations whilst having a positive and constantly evolving impact on the town centre.”
Construction of the project is currently out to tender, with works anticipated to begin at the end of this year, and to complete by the end of 2024.
Turner.Works are also working with the Isle of Wight Council on a feasibility study for a new Cultural Centre for Newport.
Great news. Empty premises destroy a towns ambience and appeal. Take a look at Newport which is horrendous.
Surely this goes completely against the local authority ‘regeneration’ schemes as it is actually improving something and making it useful for a change – what about net zero? What about diversity?
Wishing you all the best…
As previous comment much better than an empty shop …
Be empty again after they burn all of the Arts Council money on this vanity project.