New moves on arts centre plan
A proposal to set up an arts centre in Wymondham's historic Becket's Chapel is moving forward as discussions take place with the trustees responsible for its future.
WYMONDHAM may get an arts centre for the spring and summer if talks about the historic Becket's Chapel are successful.
Wymondham Arts Forum first proposed in March 2005 that the building would be suitable as an arts centre, and has been promoting the idea since then.
Now they are in talks with the The Old Grammar School trustees,
who have welcomed the idea in principle.
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The 12th century building
became vacant for the first time in
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60 years when the town's new
library was opened in November last year.
Wymondham Arts Forum chairman John Wood said: "We believe
Becket's Chapel would make
an excellent home for the arts,
as a gallery, work space and venue
for small recitals, drama performances and meetings. It would provide a
focus for the many artists living
and working in the Wymondham
area, and be a valuable addition to
the town's many visitor
attractions.
"If there is sufficient support we believe this can become a reality, but we first need to assess whether other people share our enthusiasm for the idea."
The proposal gained overwhelming support at a crowded arts
forum meeting, in November, at
which guest speaker Nicky
Stainton, executive director of Creative Arts East, led a discussion on the theme An Arts Centre
for Wymondham?
It was suggested that the arts
forum might rent the building for a six-month period this spring and summer, to try out different
uses, evaluate the possibilities and work up a business plan for longer-term use.
Mr Stainton has joined the
forum's steering group. And Mr Wood added: "It's great to have Nicky's experience and knowledge of the
arts, and to be able to call on the professional services of Wymondham-based Creative Arts East in areas
like evaluation and business
planning.
"We have a very enthusiastic
team and expect to enlist more
support from the local arts community."
For more information contact Wymondham Arts Forum chairman John Wood on 01953 602051.
