THE creator of a new recording studio in West Malvern says it is near completion and he wants to open its doors to the local community.

The £1 million conversion of Raglan House, on Westminster Bank, will create two sound studios and space for small creative businesses.

It is the brainchild of local businessman and musician Paul Farrer, who wants it to become a creative centre for local artists, musicians and community groups.

"I need the recording studios for my work. It's a professional environment but there is more space than I need," said Mr Farrer, who owns West Malvern-based Music Mint and wrote the theme tune to television show The Weakest Link. and is writing the music for a new ITV show Dancing On Ice.

He said he would like to see local bands, musicians and choirs use the facilities.

Mr Farrer is also in talks with Malvern Hills District Council arts development officer Manda Graham about opening up the facilities at Raglan House for community use, perhaps offering work experience placements or opening it up to local schools and clubs.

He said there was a lot of potential but no definite decisions had been made as yet, as there was still building work to complete over the next three months.

"There are a lot of creative people in Malvern and I want the studio to be a place where things can happen," said Mr Farrer.

Once completed, Raglan House will contain two recording studios, office space for six small businesses and two self-contained flats. The basement will be home to the Leapfrogs pre-school playgroup.