THE BOX at FarGo Village is being upgraded into a major performing arts and events venue in Coventry’s Creative Quarter.
The building in Far Gosford Street – which started life as a carpet warehouse – has held events for the last three years but is now undergoing a £750,000 revamp ahead of Coventry being UK City of Culture in 2021.
A new demountable stage, theatre lighting and audio system along with conference seating for up to 250 people is to be built.
It is hoped it will create a flexible space with opportunities for end, side or centre stage positions to suit performers preferences.
New artists changing rooms would also be provided with full accessibility for those with mobility issues.
It is hoped the area will have a standing capacity of 500 and there will also be a fully equipped bar/café when the refurbishment is completed.
A new mezzanine office including eye-catching cantilever containers on the outside of the building has been created to provide permanent offices and meeting rooms with up to 25 new jobs created on site.
Director at Complex Development Projects Brian Harrabin said: “Ahead of Coventry being UK City of Culture in 2021, this is an ideal opportunity to significantly extend the range of programmes we hold in The Box.
“We feel that there will not be a similar venue in the area and therefore this should add to Coventry’s diverse offer.
“Work is well underway on the refurbishment and we aim to be fully open in September although we continue to host events in the space in the meantime.”
Cabinet Member for Jobs and Regeneration at Coventry City Council Coun Jim O’Boyle said: “FarGo is located on one of our finest and most loved medieval streets and over recent years the whole area has undergone a massive transformation.
“It’s alive with creative talent and the development of The Box will see even more people visiting and enjoying FarGo and the wider Far Gosford Street.”
The project has received £193,00 funding from the Government’s Local Growth Fund with the remainder to be paid by Coventry City Council and Complex Development Projects – which developed FarGo Village.
