Penwortham’s new arts centre is getting ready for opening night

Penwortham‘s new arts centre The Venue is on track to open next week with a busy program of events.

Penwortham Town Council has developed the former library after it was deemed surplus to requirements by Lancashire County Council.

After months of painting, preparing and planning, The Venue now has work by local artists on display, a stage, bar and tea and coffee facilities.

Opening night will be on Friday September 27 – but tickets to the night have already sold out.

Samantha Jones, events co-ordination manager at Penwortham Town Council, said: “This is a building which is going to be used for the community.

“There will be a real mix of events which we hope is ticking the boxes for what people want to see in Penwortham.

“We have kept some of the old library features – the bar sign is made from the old letters on the outside of the library, and the shelving gives a nod to the building’s past life.

“We want The Venue to be a nice natural addition to the high street, and with the development over the road it will fit in.”

The Venue will be run by volunteers who have put themselves forward to take part in the exciting new venture.

A new sign has been created by local artist Jonathan Preston, from Kings and Queens.

Samantha said: “Our volunteers are great. It is lovely running it this way because there is a real community ownership and mutual respect fr the place.

“The town councillors have been really supportive too.”

The Venue will host open mic nights, performances, exhibitions, film clubs, sing a long sessions and local history displays.

Samantha added: “We are open to ideas. If people would like to use the building for community groups or have an idea of something they would like here, let us know.

“We are so excited to get it open and to see how it has grown in six months’ time!R

For information about the events program and updates, please visit The Venue’s Facebook page.