Horsham Rural City Council has committed to re-opening the Wesley Performing Arts.
Councillors, at Monday’s Ordinary Meeting, adopted a recommendation that will see the Council take ownership of the venue once the Wesley PACC Committee addresses safety issues that resulted in the venue’s closure in November 2017.
The plan will also see other building improvements through funds that will become available through the sale of the Wesley PACC Committee’s Music Academy in McLachlan Street.
A building audit was undertaken last year with its findings casting the centre’s future in doubt.
However an extensive Performing Arts Services Demand Assessment study showed the Wesley PAC was a required facility for the Wimmera community.
“The primary outcome of this assessment identified that Wesley fills a gap in the existing provision of cultural facilities by providing a small intimate space that is very highly regarded by the community,” Council’s Director Community Wellbeing Kevin O’Brien said.
“The study also uncovered an opportunity for broadening the arts and cultural programs currently 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,” he said.
Council will work closely with the Wesley PACC as it carries out the required works.
It will take a number of months for these works to be completed and the facility reopened subject to permit requirements.
The community will be kept up to date as works progress.
