Coventry’s former Ikea store is set to house a new cultural hub and collections centre, as planning permission has now been granted for the project.
After being repurposed, the Ikea building will become the City Centre Cultural Gateway (CCCG), a new home for national collections of artworks, as well as research facilities.
The development, led by Coventry City Council, will be carried out in three phases. The works will begin at the end of this year, with an opening currently scheduled for 2025.
National art collections
The first phase involves transforming part of the building into a space where CV Life, Arts Council England, Arts Council Collection and the British Council will house their art collections.
The second phase will see Coventry University creating a cultural hub on two floors. This hub will include teaching areas, research space and attractions.
In the third and final phase, the council said it will enclose and “future-proof” the internal car park to explore alternative uses for the space.
Councillor David Welsh described getting the green light for the project as “a significant milestone”. He said the “visionary project will provide a dynamic and inclusive cultural hub for our city”.
“Vibrant cultural destination”
“Not only will it elevate Coventry’s cultural landscape, but it will also reinforce our city’s position as a vibrant cultural destination,” Welsh added.
After planning permission was submitted in March, CV Life CEO Paul Breed said the “landmark cultural scheme” will “shape the legacy for the city”.
Professor John Latham, Coventry University’s vice-chancellor, said the cultural hub will “bring great benefits to both students and the public by making cultural activities and experiences accessible to all”.
Elsewhere in Coventry, the Natural History Museum’s Dippy the dinosaur is taking up residence for three years at the city’s Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.
Images: Coventry City Council
