A multi-purpose arts, heritage, exhibition and education centre is to be created at the heart of Stourbridge Glass Quarter in the West Midlands with the help of Lottery funding.

The Glasshouse Development Project has received £1.85m of Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) backing towards a transformation of the lower Glasshouse into the new venue. Ruskin Mill Educational Trust (RMET) - owner of the complex industrial site - are leading the scheme, which aims to create a landmark destination for the town.

Work will be carried out to revitalise factory buildings, improve performance and exhibition areas for glass works and expand educational facilities. New interactive interpretation and heritage trails also comprise plans for the site, which already houses Glasshouse College; Ruskin Glass Centre and Glasshouse Arts Centre.

Glasshouse College principal Ollie Cheney said: "This is a very exciting development for the Glasshouse College. As well as expanding our education facilities it will give our students great opportunities to work with the local community, celebrating and preserving the glass quarter's heritage." Glasshouse Development Project director Ian Clements added: "The HLF award is a key element in RMET's plan to upgrade, refurbish and regenerate this historically important site."