“We have developed the project together with Bergen municipality, architect and consultants and greatly appreciate the confidence shown in us and are grateful for the commission. Many of us are looking forward to starting the construction work on what will be a great building for performing arts for the benefit of the city's population, Carte Blanche, BIT Teatergarasjen and other art and cultural players,” says district manager Thor Småbrekke of Veidekke Bygg Bergen.

The central baths were built in 1960 and comprised a pool building and front building. The pool building is currently being completely demolished, while the front building will retain most of the load-bearing structures when the demolition work is completed. Among other things, the performing arts centre will have two large fully equipped stages with 150 and 300 seats respectively in a sliding amphitheater, two rehearsal halls, locker room facilities and a larger foyer area for the public.

In addition, Bergen municipality has an option for a four-storey extension with office space in the front building. The demolition work on the project has been ongoing since November, and a good number of objects and materials have been preserved for reuse in the new building. Construction work will start in May with completion scheduled for the spring of 2026.