Colchester Borough Council is delighted to have supported Colchester Arts Centre’s successful bid for this funding from Arts Council England.
The council supported Colchester Arts Centre’s bid with £30,000 of capital investment and has committed to support the project through the ‘in kind’ contribution of the professional expertise and time of officers and members. The council’s financial contribution was a key element of the success of the bid, as a minimum amount of the total project cost must be raised by applicants themselves.
Cllr Tim Young, Portfolio Holder for Business and Culture and Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “I’m really happy that Colchester Arts Centre has been successful in their bid for funding from Arts Council England. Colchester Arts Centre is such a popular attraction in Colchester and anything we can do to enhance our visitor attractions and help make sure Colchester is a welcoming and vibrant place all contributes towards our efforts for a Better Colchester.”
The two-and-half-year transformation of Colchester Arts Centre will see a new hearing loop throughout the building, accessible showers and toilets, improved handrails and ramps, and better access to the bar. As well as installing vital accessibility upgrades, the project will also upgrade the buildings technical and environmental infrastructure, which should help to reduce energy consumption and the building’s carbon footprint.
Anthony Roberts, Director of Colchester Arts Centre, added: “I am thrilled to think our beautiful venue will be fully upgraded and better equipped than ever for artists and audiences with disabilities. We will undertake this work with due respect to the history of the church and the elegance of its design. We are the enemies of utilitarianism! We are the champions of inclusion!”
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
Better Colchester is a dynamic two year action plan to help deliver the aims and objectives of the council’s overarching strategic plan. Around £2 million has been set aside to deliver proposals that will make Colchester an even better place to live, work in and visit. Find out more atwww.colchester.gov.uk/bettercolchester
For further information release please contact communications@colchester.gov.uk or call 07815 088150.
Page last reviewed: 29 October 2018