A plan to convert a historic building in Kidderminster into office and entertainment space has been approved. 

At the planning committee meeting on Tuesday night (September 17), Wyre Forest District Council approved plans to upgrade the Grade II listed Piano Building and re-purpose it for mixed commercial use. 

Plans submitted by the council detail the change of use from a higher education academy, restaurant and retail space to a mixed-use office, food and beverage, entertainment and retail area. 

The planning committee also approved the associated internal refurbishment work including the creation of a new entrance lobby and landscaping work outside. 

Councillor Marcus Hart, leader of Wyre Forest District Council, said: "We are pleased to have the detailed plans for the Piano Building approved. Our contractor, Speller Metcalfe, is now on site and ready to bring the plans to life. 

"This development represents the re-use of a locally and nationally significant listed building in a primary retail area of Kidderminster town centre. 

"As a building that is owned and managed by the council, the plans provide a significant opportunity to support the economic growth of the district and our longer-term aspirations in regenerating and reinvigorating Kidderminster town centre." 

Councillor Dan Morehead, cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and the green agenda, said: "It will be great to see the re-purposing of the building completed and to see the lights on with people using the building again. 

"We look forward to offering new tenants 'one-of-the-kind' modern workspaces with lots of glass, oak floors and industrial features as well as a central destination for local people and visitors to meet up for a night out or daytime bite to eat and drink." 

The Piano Building should be ready to occupy from the spring 2025. 

For enquiries about office or commercial space email property@wyreforestdc.gov.uk 

The project has been funded by the UK government's Levelling Up Fund. 

For more information on the regeneration of Kidderminster visit www.wyreforest.gov.uk/edr