News on Crediton Heart Proposals

A new building offering space for performances, community activities and small businesses would be well used by people living in and around Crediton, concludes a report published last month by the Crediton Heart Project.

The Heart Project Feasibility Study and Business Plan was written between June and October last year following extensive research and consultation with local community groups and the general public.

‘What has become clear is that there is significant demand for a mixed-use building which would support arts, community and business,’ concludes Rebecca Morland, the professional consultant commissioned by the Heart Project to write the report.

The Report collated information gathered from more than 30 community groups, who completed a questionnaire about how they might use a new community facility. It also used the results of the survey on this website filled in, online or on paper, by more than 600 people living in and around Crediton.

‘This has given us a good understanding of the potential demand for the range of facilities and services that the Heart Project could offer, and has enabled us to develop a business plan to demonstrate its potential viability,’ explains Ms Morland.

‘It is quite clear that any such facility will need to operate without subsidy, and it will also need to complement the existing range of provision within Crediton and its surrounds, rather than competing with it, and this has been taken into account throughout.’

The consultation showed strong demand for a flexible theatre space, which could be used by local groups as well as touring performers. Rooms for practical and creative activities were popular, as well as facilities for small businesses and the self-employed. There was also considerable support for a cinema.

Many people felt a new building should provide space and activities aimed at young people, as facilities for this group are inadequate.

Some respondents were worried that a new facility would threaten venues in Crediton and the villages. Others felt it would be better to spend money on improving current facilities and spaces.

‘These concerns are included in the report and we will take them on board as we develop our plans,’ said Rosemary Stephenson, Chair of the Crediton Heart Project.

‘There were strong feelings about the location of the new building, with many people preferring a town centre site,’ said Rosemary. ‘No site has been chosen yet, but we are considering all the options, including a split site. This could involve converting old buildings rather than creating a new one.’

The Report recommends three next steps for the Heart Project. Firstly, the development of a community website, to promote the town’s existing venues, events and businesses. The Heart Project team has already started work on this. Secondly, the appointment of an architect to advise on sites and thirdly the development of a fundraising strategy.

The full report can be read here Crediton Heart Project Feasibility Study and Business Plan

And here are the appendices Appendix 1 Visions and Trustees ; Appendix 2 - Market Analysis ; Appendix 3 - Stakeholder Consultation ; Appendix 4 - Consultant biographies ; Appendix 5 - Commonplace Survey

The Heart Project’s Consultation and Feasibility Study was funded by the National Lottery’s Community Fund.