Backing for arts venue’s future
MEMBERS of Ryedale District Council have given their backing to ambitious plans to develop the Milton Rooms in Malton.
They have agreed in principle to give £15,500 to the Milton Rooms Management Committee and artistic directors Garry Cooper and Nick Bagnall to help with the costs of an Options Appraisal and Business Plan – both of which are considered vital to the development of the building into a “cultural hub” for Ryedale and the region.
The money is dependent on council officers finding sufficient money within its 2013/14 budget.
The cost of the work is expected to be £22,000 but the Milton Rooms Management Committee has already secured a £6,500 grant from the Architectural Heritage Fund.
Speaking at Thursday’s Policy and Resources Committee, Cllr Keith Knaggs said: “This is probably our best and probably last chance to turn this into something more than a financial black hole.”
And Cllr Linda Cowling, the leader of Ryedale District Council, added: “Garry and Nick have given me great faith that we may actually deliver this project. I think it is the best opportunity we have ever had and could become a big attraction for Malton and the town centre.”
The Options Appraisal and Business Plan is the necessary next step in the long-term development of the Milton Rooms and is needed to show that the plans of Mr Cooper and Mr Bagnall are both “appropriate and viable.”
It is also considered a vital component of the continued support of the Prince’s Regeneration Trust which says it will help the Milton Rooms Management Committee until it has all the funding and capacity needed for the development identified in the Options Appraisal and Business Plan.
The support of the PRT, whose patron is Prince Charles, is a major boost for the Milton Rooms and brings with it a proven track record of engaging with key heritage and funding agencies.
Under the stewardship of Mr Cooper and Mr Bagnall, The Milton Rooms has produced a number of high-profile productions, including A Christmas Fair, which boasted a script by acclaimed playwright Jim Cartwright and an all-star cast.
The Milton Rooms has also welcomed Griff Rhys Jones, patron of the PRT, who presented a special Tea and a Tale event and spoke about his experience in saving historic buildings, such as the venue in Malton’s Market Place.
Mr Cooper said afterwards: “This is great news for everyone at the Milton Rooms. Not only is it extremely positive for our ambitions to regenerate the building but also for the future of the town and district.”
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Weather for Malton
Wednesday 19 June 2013
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