Thursday, June 21, 2007
Tower Arts Centre under threat
Winchester MP Mark Oaten and his wife Belinda have joined forces with local Lib Dem councillors in the campaign to save the Tower Arts Centre. Tory controlled Hants County Council is negotiating with the centre's neighbouring King's School over a possible transfer of the popular Winchester venue, but its future is uncertain. HCC believe the Tower will become redundant as the new Discovery Centre (revamped library) in the city centre will include a 'performing arts space.'
Winchester Lib Dem Group leader Therese Evans said, " When Winchester City Council agreed to contribute £1 million to the Discovery Centre there was no mention that this would be at the expense of Winchester's other arts venues. Tower Arts attracts quality artists and has sell-out performances. It would be a huge loss if it closes."
Tower Arts attracts audiences who may not be traditional theatregoers and has over the years run an enormous range of arts related workshops for children and young people. Many aspiring musicians have been given their first opportunity to perform there. The 'Summersound,' event in 2006 used outside space and a lorry load of sand to create a beach atmosphere. It is difficult to see how this kind of event could ever be accommodated in the Discovery Centre.
I will be joining Mark and other campaigners at a demonstration in support of the Tower's continuing independence and management at the Centre tomorrow (Friday) at 7.30pm.
Winchester Lib Dem Group leader Therese Evans said, " When Winchester City Council agreed to contribute £1 million to the Discovery Centre there was no mention that this would be at the expense of Winchester's other arts venues. Tower Arts attracts quality artists and has sell-out performances. It would be a huge loss if it closes."
Tower Arts attracts audiences who may not be traditional theatregoers and has over the years run an enormous range of arts related workshops for children and young people. Many aspiring musicians have been given their first opportunity to perform there. The 'Summersound,' event in 2006 used outside space and a lorry load of sand to create a beach atmosphere. It is difficult to see how this kind of event could ever be accommodated in the Discovery Centre.
I will be joining Mark and other campaigners at a demonstration in support of the Tower's continuing independence and management at the Centre tomorrow (Friday) at 7.30pm.
