Arts centre project funds appeal

Building work is continuing on the landmark arts centre

A project to build a new visual arts centre in Essex needs another �750,000.

The Firstsite:newsite gallery in the town, due to open at the end of 2009, could run about �7.5m over budget.

Colchester Borough Council, Essex County Council and Eastern Arts are each providing an extra �2m with the exterior due to be finished by 22 May.

The East of England Development Agency (EEDA) will provide an extra �750,000 - half of the �1.5m requested for the project.

A spokesperson EEDA said: "EEDA's Board has agreed in principle to provide up to a maximum additional sum of �750,000 available for the firstsite visual arts facility project.

"Any grants made will be subject to stringent terms and conditions and EEDA is working with partners to determine the details behind this arrangement.

"The board recognised the significant regeneration impact of firstsite. It will be a major cultural attraction for the town and the region, bringing visitors and wealth to the area and increasing trade for local businesses.

"While the project has clearly run into some difficulties in recent months, we continue to work closely with partners to complete the project."

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