PLANS to build a new cultural quarter for Great Yarmouth will move a step closer when work begins to convert St George’s Chapel and construct a new pavilion alongside.

On November 22, RG Carter will begin the ambitious Great Yarmouth Borough Council-led renovation project, working closely with English Heritage and Hopkins Architects.

Work on the Grade 1 listed building will see it become a multi-purpose arts centre, capable of hosting a number of different types of performance and hold 300 sitting and 400 standing.

It is hoped it will breathe new life into the surrounding area and is expected to be completed by December next year and open to the public in early 2012.

Outside the chapel, a pavilion will be constructed on the pedestrianised St George’s Plain, housing a caf� and bar, toilets, and front of house/ticket sales facilities for the venue.

There will also be an outdoor performance area.

Barry Coleman, leader of Great Yarmouth Borough Council, said: “The start of work at St George’s represents a significant milestone in the creation of a new cultural quarter for Great Yarmouth.

“A renovated chapel, as a multi-use arts and community venue, will provide a fantastic addition to our already thriving cultural offer and preserves one of the town’s most iconic buildings.

“A pedestrian friendly outside Plain area will help to link the area with the already rejuvenated St George’s Park through to the sea front and in the other direction, along King Street to the town centre.

“I look forward to watching the project progress, towards an early 2012 opening to the public.”