Shakespeare Birthplace Trust moves a step further with its learning hub plans
Shakespeare fans are cheering news that a new learning and community hub celebrating his life and works is set to be realised in his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon.
The charity, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust (SBT) has announced the first successful stage of the project - a change of use application for 22 Henley Street, the former site of the Edinburgh Woolen Mill store.
The aim now is to transform the building into a new mixed-use learning and community space and welcome the first audiences in the second half of 2025.
The scheme was first announced late last year and has been part funded by a grant from Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s (SDC) Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) fund. The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is also actively fundraising.
Rachael North, director of museum and public programmes for the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said: "As a charity that focuses on ensuring that everyone has a positive experience with Shakespeare, the new Learning and Community Hub will enable us to host tens of thousands of schools and learning visits from across the world on the street where Shakespeare was born.
"This is something that has not been possible since 2019 and we are excited by the opportunity this offers for children, young people and our communities within Stratford-upon-Avon."
She added: "The venue will also have the celebration of local communities and talent at its heart.
"Local artists and creatives will be able to come together and share their work with the public in a dedicated exhibition space.
"We will also be making the venue available to local community groups throughout the year, helping to foster relationships and provide much-needed spaces for creativity and community engagement in Stratford."
The Learning and Community Hub is a key element of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust reframing its work as a major museum of Shakespeare for Stratford-upon-Avon and the world.
