Arts centre could be set for Fletton Quays

Funding is being sought for a new arts centre on the landmark Fletton Quays site which could incorporate crafts, exhibitions and fringe shows.
Communities Secretary Greg Clark looking at a mural in Fletton Quays next to councillors and MP Stewart JacksonCommunities Secretary Greg Clark looking at a mural in Fletton Quays next to councillors and MP Stewart Jackson
Communities Secretary Greg Clark looking at a mural in Fletton Quays next to councillors and MP Stewart Jackson

Peterborough City Council has purchased the former mill building and site from Milton Estates, at a cost of £750,000, on Fletton Quays as part of the site’s wider regeneration.

Talks regarding an arts centre are at an early stage but council leader Councillor John Holdich revealed funding will be sought from organisations such as Arts Council England.

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Cllr Holdich said: “We are working with local organisations and national organisations to see what funding we can get. We have not got anything like this at the moment.”

The council leader believes exhibitions from artists and experimental fringe shows could be put on at the new centre should it open in a couple of years’ time.

Arts organisation Metal has been consulted on the centre by the council. Mark Richards, director of Metal Peterborough, said: “We are quite excited it’s potentially going to have cultural use.”

The £120 million Fletton Quays redevelopment on Peterborough’s South Bank will include a hotel, offices and 280 homes.

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The former mill building was the last part of the site which the council did not own.

A spokeswoman for the council said: “The council will be working with partners to explore converting the building to a new hub for arts and culture for the city, subject to identifying the funding.”

The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government visited Fletton Quays on Wednesday (April 6).

Greg Clark was joined by MP for Peterborough Stewart Jackson, Peterborough City Council leader Councillor John Holdich, Mayor of Peterborough Councillor John Peach, and other Conservative councillors.

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During his tour of the site, Mr Clark also saw an iconic mural which four years ago was removed from the side of Bridge House on Town Bridge.

The mural is to be professionally restored then relocated to a new home in a prominent location in the heart of Fletton Quays.

Mr Clark also saw demolition work which started last month on Aqua House to make way for the South Bank development.The demolition work is expected to be complete early this summer.