A £250,000 amphitheatre has been launched in rural Wychavon.

The amphitheatre, a 250-seat performance space crafted from a naturally occurring slope, is the result of collaborations between The Lenches Sports and Recreation Club, London-based acoustic specialists SWAP architects, and a group of volunteers.

The project offers a space for live entertainment, theatre and community gatherings against the backdrop of countryside views.

 

 

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Already hosting performances and receiving positive reviews, a programme of events for the summer is being lined up, with possible plans for Wychavon to host one of its outdoor cinema events at the venue.

The district council allocated £95,000 from its Community Legacy Grant scheme to the project, by giving the funding to South Lenches Parish Council.

£19,000 came from Wychavon's portion of the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Scheme, interspersed with £20,000 of contributions from the Garfield Weston Foundation.

Funding was also raised from community events, a donation from the building material supplier Jewson, and the free technical support and time given by the local community.

Neil Pearce, chairman of The Lenches Amphitheatre Committee, said: "This is an incredibly exciting and unique community-led project which has only been made possible by a small team of dedicated volunteers who have committed so much time and energy to ensure the success of this project and of course generous grants and donations.

"We are all very proud of this facility and we look forward to welcoming residents and visitors this summer for another exhilarating programme of family events and shows."

A second phase of the project, projected for completion this year, includes a two-storey building adjacent to the current sports and recreation club pavilion, which will feature a multi-use room for hire, storage space, and a balcony with views of the Malvern Hills and the stage below.

Cllr Rob Adams, executive board member for stronger communities, culture and sport on the council, said: "This is a spectacular project which has created a first-class facility for residents across the district and another example of how we are investing to make a lasting difference to our communities."