| 21st January, 2003 - The
planning application for the Engine Shed is being submitted to CBC
Planning Office today.
The plans show the renovation of the old railway building at Wivenhoe railway station to look as it once did with, internally, an auditorium for up to 200 people as space for performances, shows and exhibitions. More exciting though is that with a two story extension on the river side, the Engine Shed Community Arts Centre will comprise 4 rooms especially for teaching and for learning. Social inclusivity is at the very core of our thinking. People with disabilities will be able to enjoy the same access as everybody else. Indeed, we are keen to see workshops and arts courses run at the Engine Shed for people in Colchester Borough with any sort of disability. This project will not just benefit the people of Wivenhoe but people across the Borough who we hope will come here for classes, workshops, rehearsals, shows, concerts and exhibitions. The range of arts can encompass all types of music, dance, film, drama and painting. The Centre will be offered for hire to voluntary and professional groups and organisations across the Borough. Because of the extraordinary basis on which the building is being acquired from Railtrack, a 999 year lease for a nominal £1 per annum, by Wivenhoe Town Council with ultimate management by the Wivenhoe Community Association, as a registered charity, means the running costs of the building will be extraordinarily low. We fully expect the Engine Shed to become a significant asset for the Borough, to further enhance Colchester's reputation as a prestigious town in the east of England and a great place to live. The Engine Shed Project Team are grateful to the officers in Colchester Borough Council's Leisure Services team who are now helping us with applications for Heritage and Arts Lottery funding.
For copy of internal layouts and front elevation, plus other details about the Project, click here |