PAUL'S BLOG: Accessible Lift Secured for Worcester’s Swan Theatre as Work Set to Begin in February

🎭 A Lift for the Swan – and a Future Secured

I’m absolutely delighted that Worcester’s Swan Theatre will finally be getting the accessible lift it so desperately needed. After years of hard work from Worcester Theatres and sustained campaigning from local residents and councillors, this small but vital upgrade will make a huge difference to disabled patrons, older theatre-goers, and families with mobility needs.

We’re especially pleased to confirm that work is due to begin this February, meaning these long-overdue improvements are no longer just a hope — they’re happening.

While it’s easy to overlook a lift, this is about far more than just a bit of building work — it’s about inclusion, dignity, and independence. Everyone in Worcester should be able to enjoy the magic of live theatre without having to worry whether the building is accessible to them.

That’s why the Liberal Democrat team fought so hard to protect this funding during the recent review of the Levelling Up Cultural Fund. The original £155,000 allocation was at risk, and thanks to the tireless advocacy of our community — and pressure from the Lib Dem campaign — we’re thrilled to see it finally secured.

🏛️ Why We Backed the Freehold Transfer

We’ve also supported the transfer of the freehold of the Swan Theatre to Worcester Theatres because we believe in protecting the long-term future of the venue.

This isn’t just about ownership on paper — it’s about giving the charity that runs the Swan the certainty and autonomy it needs to plan future upgrades, attract investment, and deliver the kind of inspiring cultural programming that Worcester deserves.

The truth is, local councils are under intense financial pressure. If Worcester Theatres are to keep the Swan alive and thriving for future generations, they need the freedom to lead. Transferring the freehold is a statement of trust and confidence in their ability to do just that.

💬 Get Involved

There’s still a long road ahead — the building needs further modernisation, and arts funding is never guaranteed. But this is a big win, and I hope it marks the beginning of a more open, accessible and vibrant future for the Swan.

As always, if you’ve got thoughts or ideas on how we can support the arts in Worcester, I’d love to hear them.

Let’s keep fighting for a city where culture belongs to everyone.

– Paul Jagger