The former IKEA building, currently known as the City Centre Cultural Gateway (CCCG) will become a landmark destination in Coventry with hopes to bring together multiple local and national partners across transport, technology and the creative and cultural sectors to engage local people.
In 2020 IKEA closed the building and it was purchased by Coventry City Council with a vision to transform it into a vibrant cultural hub.
Whilst plans for the building have been taking shape, the building has been open for interim use. It has often been used as a filming set and was included as a location for Lenny Henry’s drama, Three Little Birds and BBC’s fashion series, Style It Out.
The building has also been home to Hollywood Games and has often been used as a meeting and working space for local and national businesses.
The CCCG aims to be a central hub for culture, creativity and community in the heart of the city centre, boasting national collection management facilities, dedicated spaces for research, innovation and enterprise, and areas designed to host cultural, creative and community activities.
As the project grows, it promises to not only enrich Coventry's cultural landscape but also stimulate economic growth. High-level economic projections suggest the potential for significant job creation and economic value, bolstering Coventry's position as a vibrant hub.
Led by Coventry City Council, the project works alongside organisations including the British Council, Arts Council England, CV Life and Coventry University.