Future brightens for Wesley centre

Horsham Rural City Council has committed to re-opening Wesley Performing Arts Centre.

The council voted at a meeting on Monday night to take ownership of the venue after the centre’s management committee addressed safety issues.

Fire-safety concerns forced the closure of the historic venue in November, 2017 and findings of a building audit last year placed the centre’s future in doubt.

Wesley Performing Arts Centre Committee is in charge of the centre, formerly Horsham Methodist Church, which became a performing arts venue after a major community redevelopment project.

The Horsham council has leased the building for use in its arts and culture program.

Plans are that building improvements at the centre will come via money from the sale of the Wesley committee’s Music Academy in Mclachlan Street.

A Performing Arts Services Demand Assessment study showed the Wesley Performing Arts Centre was a required facility for the Wimmera.

“The study also uncovered an opportunity for broadening the arts and cultural programs available in the Wimmera” – Kevin O’brien

Council community wellbeing director Kevin O’brien said the assessment identified that the Wesley centre filled a gap ‘in the provision of cultural facilities’.

“It provides a small intimate space that is very highly regarded by the community,” he said.

“The study also uncovered an opportunity for broadening the arts and cultural programs available in the Wimmera.

“This has the potential to build upon Horsham’s support of the creative industries and growing reputation as a cultural destination.”

The council will work closely with the Wesley PAC as it carries out required works.

Councillors heard that a works program was likely to take several months before the venue reopened, subject to permit requirements.

The council plans to provide the regional community with updates as works progress.