Leading architectural practice Turner.Works today announces that planning permission has been granted by Isle of Wight Council for its transformation of the former Packs 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 cafe.
A place to host events and exhibitions
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 transformation will breathe new life into the high street and contribute to the overall economic growth and regeneration of Ryde town centre by providing opportunities to creative businesses and entrepreneurs, creating new sustainable jobs and training, and by offering a diverse range of activities beyond traditional shopping and dining to attract a broader audience to the area.
Brainchild of Shademakers
The project has been driven by carnival arts group Shademakers, which enlisted the support of Turner.Works on securing the Arts Council Capital Fund. It is being delivered in conjunction with the council, following funding from DCMS, Arts Council England, Historic England and the Architectural Heritage Fund.
Turner.Works are specialists in the design of successful projects focused on benefitting communities through the provision of creative, arts and cultural spaces. The practice has established a reputation for delivering high-quality, high-impact projects often producing innovative design solutions despite limited resources.
Winstanley: Revitalising a significant heritage building
Suzi Winstanley, Director at Turner.Works and Project Director, said,
“We are delighted that our plans for the transformation of the former Packs 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 out to tender
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.
The wider project design team has included local architects Modh Design, alongside Tari Willis, Salvis Group, 24 Acoustics, NT Surveying, Daniel Stimson Surveying, and BWC Fire.
Turner.Works are also working with the Isle of Wight council on a feasibility study for a new Cultural Centre for Newport.
Article edit
2.50pm 28th Apr 2024 – Elizabeth Packs changed to Packs
News shared by Elizabeth on behalf of Turner.Works. Ed
