A new arts venue in Stokesley aims to enhance local culture and community engagement
Stokesley: Exciting news is brewing in Stokesley! Plans are underway to transform the old bank on High Street into a vibrant arts venue. This project has the support of local MP Rishi Sunak, which is pretty cool.
The idea is to create a 200-seater space for theater shows and film screenings. Plus, there will be a gallery, rehearsal studio, workshop, meeting rooms, and even a cozy café. Sounds like a great addition to the town!
Dan Brookes, who runs the youth theatre group Crash Bang Wallop, is leading the charge. They currently perform in nearby towns, so this venue would be a game-changer for local talent.
Recently, Mr. Sunak checked out the plans during a visit to the former Barclays bank, which closed in 2018. He got to see how the community is rallying behind this initiative.
Brookes mentioned that they’ve already received backing from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Architectural Heritage Foundation, which helped fund a £30,000 feasibility study. Now, they just need to secure planning permission and raise £400,000 to buy the building.
Brookes expressed gratitude for Sunak’s support, emphasizing that Stokesley is a lively town but lacks such a venue. He believes the community will embrace this project and that it will boost the local economy.
Once they get the green light, Brookes wants to involve locals in deciding how to use the space. He envisions it as a community hub, not just an arts center.
The estimated cost to convert the building is around £3 million. The project group plans to apply for funding from various organizations, including the Arts Council and Heritage Lottery Fund.
Sunak, who met with the project team and young theatre members, called it an exciting opportunity for Stokesley, especially for its youth. He’s on board to support the necessary grant applications to make this dream a reality.
