Maltings New venue - View Royal_Tweed_Bridge LR
A further update from Scott Sherrard, Chair of The Maltings (Berwick) Trust
As we prepare to close our building in Eastern Lane this week, I feel I should comment on what has developed into a visible campaign against the construction of the new Maltings building – a facility we need if we are to offer the opportunities afforded to us by the transformational Borderlands funding.
I believe that we in Berwick have reached a fork in the road. If we want our future and that of our young folk to be built on more than nostalgia, we must embrace change. Without change, we won’t see the regeneration that the town so urgently needs. Without the new, we settle for the old.
Developing the plans for the new arts centre and theatre has been exacting and complex. NCC has taken professional advice throughout, and we have consulted widely. Our guiding principle has been how best we can offer more – more access, more opportunities, more education, more participation, more engagement and more entertainment. We have a once-in-a-generation chance at that.
Government funding insists on an economic return for the community and this project delivers. But if we reduce the offer – for whatever reason, including delay – we reduce the return. In turn that puts the funding at risk. And that’s an existential threat to The Maltings.
There are plenty of people claiming to speak on Berwick’s behalf. I can only speak for myself and the Trust, and for the many people in Berwick who have told me how much they support the project. We believe in the function and form of the design. It integrates well with the skyline and is an important 21st century addition. We are not embarrassed that the Town Council unanimously, and Historic England professionally, agree. It will transform opportunities, especially amongst the young and disadvantaged. It will be a joyful place and a visitor attraction in its own right. It will change Berwick for the better.
We do so value your continuing support. The planning portal is still open should you wish to put your name behind our ambition. Just follow this link.
Let’s get on with this.
Scott Sherrard, Chair of The Maltings (Berwick) Trust