Plans to convert the former parks department headquarters into an art studio and cultural centre have progressed with a planning application.

The submission said the project would involve an expansion of the historic building’s footprint, repair work and internal modifications to the structure in the Botanical Gardens.

The ground floor of the building would include a multi-purpose education room along with sculpture space, a dark room and expanded bathroom facilities.

The upper floor would host four studios for artists.

The Grade 3-listed building, which dates back to 1898, was shuttered in 2018 because of “severe mould issues”.

In February, Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the Minister of Public Works, joined Masterworks executive director Risa Hunter to announce a collaboration between the Government and the art museum to revitalise the structure.

Colonel Burch noted that the museum approached his ministry with a proposal to lease and renovate the government asset at no cost to the taxpayer.

He said at the time: “The benefits that Masterworks bring to our community is exemplified by the successful transformation of the former arrowroot factory building.

“This shows their dedication to repurposing historical spaces to enrich our vibrant cultural heritage.”

A statement noted that “Masterworks will offer classes, lectures, workshops, technical support and studio space for working artists at any level of their career.“

Engineering firm iEPC Ltd said the building would become Bermuda's first art and design centre and a cultural nexus for the park.