Bridport Arts Centre has launched a £400,000 appeal to buy its historic home, creating a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to bring the building into community ownership and secure its long-term future.
The independent charity has occupied the South Street building for more than 50 years.
In 2020, local businessman Alasdair Warren bought the property to safeguard the Arts Centre during a difficult period. He has now agreed to sell it to the charity, allowing it to become owner of the building – if the fundraising target is met.
As well as purchasing the property, the appeal aims to fund essential repairs and improve accessibility. Since opening in 1973, the Arts Centre has become one of Dorset’s best-known cultural venues. It is home to the internationally recognised Bridport Prize, the From Page to Screen film festival, BACstage youth theatre and a year-round programme of theatre, music, comedy, film and exhibitions. The building also provides a base for the West Dorset Film Makers Network, Bridport Film Society and the popular FEAST café. Director Claire Tudge said the campaign was about protecting a place where generations of local people had watched performances, discovered artists, taken to the stage and developed their own creativity.
bridport-arts.com/cometogether
