Community based group seeking local support to produce new bid
A group of W3 locals, hoping to once again try and turn Acton's Old Library into an arts centre, is appealing for help from the community.
Four years have gone by since Ealing council put out to tender the opportunity to develop the site, the Curzon Cinema group won that bid and was proposing a three-screen cinema, restaurant, bar and three flats on the top floor.
Unfortunately work never started and it was announced last year that the deal was off.
A spokesperson from Ealing Council told ActonW3.com, ''We are seeking bids that will enhance the regeneration of Acton, boost its night-time economy and help deliver on the potential of the area. There is scope for different uses in any prospective development subject to planning and financial viability.”
The original community based bid to develop it into an arts centre was backed by many locals and celebrities and it's hoped it will now get be given a second chance.
Arts4 Acton say have visited the building twice with Council Officers and estimate it will cost £1.3 million to upgrade. They have already had discussions with two potential developers, and are planning to meet another. The group has visited similar ventures in other areas and spoken to people involved aout their business model, their running costs and their failures as well as their successes.
Maire Lowe from the group says: ''We need to update the business case presented to the Boroughthree years ago. Specifically, we need to recommission the architect and surveyors who will of course require payment for their professional services. We have compiled a list of possible organisations and charities who may be able to help fund this new business case.''
They are now seeking further community support to help develop their bid and ask anyone with business, financial or publicity skills to contact them on arts4acton@gmail.com.
Other residents are being urged to write to the Chief Executive of Ealing Council, Paul Najsarek NajsarekP@ealing.gov.uk and tell him how much you are looking forward to an Arts Centre and contact the W3 candidates standing in this year's council election and ask if they support the community bid, their names can be found in nominations at Ealing.gov.uk.
9th April 2018
