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- By Russ Corey
- Nov 21, 2005
SHEFFIELD — Noel Webster has ambitious plans for a vacant building behind 3614 Jackson Highway.
Actually, it’s three buildings separated by interior walls and Webster has distinct plans for each one.
In 1999, Webster purchased the nondescript stone building at 3614 Jackson Highway, the original home of Muscle Shoals Sound Studios.
He restored the studio, going as far as replacing the original sound and recording equipment down to the very model numbers.
The building has also been nominated for inclusion in the National Record of Historic Places.
Webster now wants to develop the largest of the three buildings behind the studio into a venue designed specifically for live music.
Alcoholic beverages would be available, he said, but music will be the primary attraction.
Plans include a 20-foot by 20-foot stage and a sound system.
“It will be more like a concert hall or event center,” Webster said.
“There will be no Bud signs, no racing, no Budweiser promotions, no TVs for sports,” he said. “It will be themed around Muscle Shoals Sound.”
The middle building will house an office and apartment, Webster said.
The building closest to the rear of the studio will be home to an art gallery, coffee shop and gift shop.
Webster envisions a more laid-back atmosphere with couches lining the walls and a small corner
stage for acoustic performances.
Webster also wants to develop a portion of the property for outdoor performances in an area he sees as a small natural amphitheater.
He wants to build a small stage and invite vendors to sell food during the events. On Sundays, he said, it could be utilized by churches.
“It all works to supplement the studio,” Webster said.
The buildings are being cleaned out and Webster hopes to have the music hall completed by the first of the year. Webster said the area is zoned for business and his neighbors are behind the venture.
“My neighbors do want this to happen,” Webster said.
Sheffield Mayor Billy Don Anderson said even though the property is in a business zone, Webster would have to get approval from the city’s planning commission.
“We want to have the blessing of the planning board,” he said.
Anderson also envisions developing a portion of downtown Sheffield as a music and entertainment district.
He said the emphasis will be on attracting people from outside the Shoals.
“This is a much bigger project than just trying to attract local people,” he said.
Russ Corey can be reached at 740-5738 or russ.corey@timesdaily.com.
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