Plans for a new Royston Arts Hub tabled

The building is nearly 50 years old and has been empty for about six years. (Image: Archant)

Drawings have been sketched for a multi- purpose community facility on the site of the old Meridian swimming pool and youth centre in Garden Walk – and staff at the school are keen for interested parties to get involved.

Ideas for the centre, which could be used by the numerous clubs and societies in town, include a large adaptable performance hall, two backstage/meeting rooms, and a reception, bar area, changing facilities and toilets, as well as additional parking spaces.

Meridian headteacher Dr Michael Firth said: “Royston is a remarkable place for the arts, but with the town growing and more houses being built, people are saying there needs to be more facilities.

“I can’t think of anywhere else in the town with sufficient land to build – without having to buy that land first.

“This school prides itself on being a facility for the community but sometimes the school hall can be booked up for weeks, so this would create more space for clubs and societies, as well as for the other schools in town. The school hall fits about 250 people – our production of Les Miserables sold out in just a few days.”

Royston MP Sir Oliver Heald is excited by the proposal. He said: “I was delighted to be shown the plans for an arts centre at Meridian.

“It would certainly be a very exciting development for Royston generally and for the local schools. I am happy to support this in any way I can and wish them well in applying for funding.”

As well as asking the public to have their say, Dr Firth is calling on people who work in fundraising or have experience and expertise in applying for grants to help out with the financial side of things. If you are interested in getting involved and want to find out more, email Rachel at r.bartholomew@rsat.org.uk.