(18020) - Quay Arts - To undertake essential renovations theatre roof.

In 1996, with support from the Arts Council the building underwent a £1 million redevelopment project. Quay Arts reopened in 1997 with expanded facilities, including the West Gallery and the Anthony Minghella Theatre. The centre features two free public galleries, a 134-seat theatre, a gift shop, a café bar, and three flexible conferencing, meeting, and workshop rooms. It is also licensed as a wedding venue.

The applicant urgently needs to replace the flat roof that protects the theatre space, as it has reached the end of its lifespan. Water infiltration into the ceiling voids is now affecting the lighting and electrical rigs. As this replacement is imminent, Quay Arts intends to use this opportunity to improve its sustainability, given that the theatre is responsible for a significant portion of its energy consumption.

Through a comprehensive consultation process, including public meetings, user forums, and focus groups, it has gathered community feedback. There is a strong desire for the building, and for work to continue as an essential community hub. In the past year, Quay Arts has provided creative experiences to 2,238 children and young people, delivered 23 free exhibitions, and hosted more than 50 events in the theatre. Regular users of the space include an accessible music group, sound bath therapy, community repair café, a ukulele group, jazz and folk sessions, food bank, life drawing, quilt group and record fair. There are no other facilities on the Isle of Wight that combine workshop, gallery, and theatre spaces.