The Swan Theatre in Worcester is at risk of losing £200,000 in funding earmarked for the installation of a new lift to improve accessibility, as the government reviews £5 million in promised Levelling Up funding for the city. The lift upgrade would make the much-loved theatre more inclusive, enabling better access for those with mobility challenges and ensuring the venue remains a welcoming space for all.
The Swan Theatre has long been a cultural hub for Worcester, hosting performances, workshops, and community events. However, without the £200,000 from the Levelling Up fund, plans to install the new lift may be delayed indefinitely, limiting accessibility for many members of the community.
Paul Jagger, Liberal Democrat campaigner, highlighted the importance of the project. “The Swan Theatre is a cherished part of Worcester’s cultural life, but it needs to be accessible to everyone. This lift upgrade isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity to ensure that people with mobility challenges can enjoy everything the theatre has to offer,” said Jagger. “If this funding is withdrawn, it would be a huge blow to the theatre and to the values of inclusion and accessibility that Worcester stands for. We need to send a strong message to the government that Worcester deserves this investment.”
The £5 million Levelling Up funding, which is now under review, was set to support several key projects in Worcester, including cultural and heritage initiatives. Other projects at risk include new education centres at the City Art Gallery and Tudor House Museum, expanded public spaces at the Corn Exchange and Scala, and improvements to local parks such as Gheluvelt and Cripplegate.
Paul Jagger continued, “Accessibility upgrades like this lift are essential for creating inclusive community spaces. The government must honour its commitment to Worcester and ensure that these vital projects can go ahead. The people of Worcester shouldn’t be left questioning whether their city matters.”
With just six weeks to influence the government’s decision, Worcester’s Liberal Democrats are urging residents to take action by contacting key decision-makers and advocating for the city’s funding:
Rachel Reeves, Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer: Rachel.reeves.mp@parliament.uk
Tom Collins, MP for Worcester: Tom.collins.mp@parliament.uk
Angela Rayner, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party: angela.rayner.mp@parliament.uk
Email templates are available on the Worcester Liberal Democrat website to help residents effectively express their concerns. Together, we can ensure the Swan Theatre and other vital projects receive the support they need to move forward.
