Community group bids to save derelict chapel

On the edge of the borough, on Market Place in Middleton, lies a disused former Chapel. It has lain derelict for a number of years and has been the target of theft and repeated vandalism. The Chapel has a long history and is a Grade II Listed building. Currently it is owned by a property developer and has outline planning permission to be converted into apartments. This conversion will retain some but not all of the architechural features that give it Listed status.

A small group of community activists from Middleton are currently undertaking a feasibility study to determine if there is a viable alternative use for the building, as a Community Arts Theatre.

Campaign leader Dave Thomas said: "It's important to point out that this is NOT a campaign aimed at evil property developers. There are no petitions or placards being prepared. In fact, quite the opposite. We have been in touch with the current owners, who are fully aware, and far from hostile, over our plans."

The goal is to restore the historic building to former glories, retaining all the features that afford it that Grade II Listed building status but at the same time bringing new life and energy back to it after many years of neglect.

The project, which is called 'A Theatre for All', as well as incorporating a stage and an auditorium for the kind of plays and concerts which are best suited to a smaller venue (with seating for around 150-200), the group also plans to utilise the auditorium as a cinema, showing special features.

Integral to the conversion will be separate rehearsal and studio space, which will also serve as a function area.

Mr Thomas continued: "Chances are anyone involved in a group or organisation (not just those whose interest lies in performing arts) will know how difficult is to find space - space to meet, space to work, space that is modern, clean, safe and accessible. And, above all, affordable. We know from our own experience just how difficult it is."

"'Art' tends to be synonomous with elitism and snobbery - or with the risible excesses of self-styled modern art. To our minds, 'for all' means exactly that - and what we are aiming at is being inclusive of that vast swathe of middle-ground 'art' in all its range, diversity and culture.

"Whether you are a young mum with a toddler looking for, say, a dance activity, a budding musician looking for an impromptu jamming session, a young person interested in learning street dance, a singer wanting to record in a professional studio, an artist looking to exhibit your work, a film buff with a liking for, say, classic Hitchcock, someone interested in taking up drama, pottery, creative writing, joining a book-reading club, card-making, or in a thousand and one other 'artistic' pursuits, then there will hopefully be something there for you under the one roof, no matter where you live."

The group hopes to purchase and convert the building using existing funds from a variety of agencies, including the Arts Council, National Lottery and the Architechural Heritage Fund. Mr Thomas believes that there is then no reason why any Community Arts Theatre shouldn't stand on its own two feet. "We intend to ensure it is run with the kind of commitment, energy and imagination that will see it self-sufficient. It can be done," he said.

The group now hopes to hear the views of the public on the proposed scheme and are encouraging people who are interested in the project to get involved. Mr Thomas said finally: "Although leading the project, and well advanced with the feasibility study, we are really looking to put together a steering group - ACTfast (A Community Theatre for all support team) - so it is properly a community project. We also want to hear from any individual, group or organisation who would be interested in using the Community Theatre.

Anyone who is interested in this project should direct their enquiries to Dave Thomas via email:

• qpr@netcomuk.co.uk