Wolverhampton city centre
Wolverhampton is a step closer to getting an exciting new destination for food, drink and socialising, after the council confirmed it was set to start the search for an operator to deliver a major new ‘box space’ venue in the heart of the city.
The move brings forward a long held ambition to create a bold, modern space where residents, students and visitors can eat, drink, meet friends and enjoy a buzzing atmosphere – adding something completely new to what the city already offers.
City of Wolverhampton Council has set aside up to £5.5 million from its Revolving Capital Investment Fund to kickstart the project. The chosen operator will pay back the investment through their lease, while also attracting up to half a million visitors a year – boosting footfall, local jobs and the wider city centre economy.
Several potential sites have been shortlisted but the council is also keen to hear from prospective operators on which council owned sites would work best for their proposition.
The new venue would tap into Wolverhampton’s growing evening and night time economy and respond directly to the region’s first Evening and Night time Economy strategy – launched last autumn – which highlighted the need to expand the city’s food and leisure offer.
A recent market assessment by independent experts (Leisure Division) also shows strong and growing demand for food hall style destinations, even while traditional food and drink businesses face tougher trading conditions nationally.
The council will formally launch its tender process next month, seeking an experienced operator with a proven track record of running successful box style venues and a passion for delivering high quality, inclusive, community minded spaces.
Councillor Chris Burden, Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “We’ve wanted to bring a box space to Wolverhampton for a while, so I’m delighted we’re finally pressing ahead. This is a chance to create something really special – somewhere that feels authentically ‘Wolves’, gives people more reasons to spend time in the city centre, and attracts visitors from across the region.”
He added: “This is about pride, energy and momentum. Alongside major investment like the £83 million Smithgate development, the transformation of The Halls and huge upgrades to public spaces, safety and lighting, this new venue will help make our city centre an exciting, vibrant place day and night.”