BROMSGROVE'S MP is looking to help secure fresh funding for the Artrix after discussing the issue with the centre's current director.

In January the Advertiser reported on how a 10 year agreement for Bromsgrove District Council to provide £120,000 a year to the School Drive-based facility, was finishing this month.

At the last full meeting of the authority, which set the authority's budget, councillors agreed to provide £60,000 a year, between 2015 and 2018, to support the venue.

The move has been criticised by some in the arts sector and by Labour councillors, who have warned of the impact funding being cut in half could have.

Councillor Michael Webb, the portfolio holder for finance, has defended the authority's position pointing out the funding agreement was always going to end this year and, after a dialogue with the Artrix, they wanted to continue to support the venue into the future.

Mr Javid, the town's MP and Secretary of State for Culture, has welcomed the authority's new funding but met Artrix director Ros Robins to discuss how he could assist.

“Our Artrix is brilliant and there should be no doubt about its future," the MP said.

"Bromsgrove council has given terrific support for the development of the Artrix over the last 10 years to the tune of £1.2 million.

"We need to look at how we best support our Artrix into its next decade, so that it can stand stronger on its own feet.

"It’s great that Bromsgrove council will still be providing £60,000 a year.

"However, to top these funds up, the director and I agree that it should employ a professional fundraising and marketing officer to make sure there is a long term funding plan in place.

"This would then see it comfortably through into its second successful decade in our town."

The MP said he had written to the leader of Worcestershire County Council, Adrian Hardman, calling on him to back the move.

"I have seen it work well elsewhere through my role as Secretary of State, and have full confidence that it would help the Artrix long term," he added.

Ms Robins said: "Artrix is grateful for the support and understanding of our local MP in the recent funding negotiations.

"It is always difficult for arts organisations to attract core funding that can be invested in the staff resource needed to support a successful organisation.

"Sajid understands this challenge as do Worcestershire County Council who have been active supporters of Artrix in the past and we hope will be so again in the future."

Mr Hardman added: “I have had some talks with Sajid and local councillors to see how we can help the Artrix.

"I welcome Sajid and Ros bringing this together in a formal plan to build a stronger and long term arts base in Bromsgrove. I promise a speedy response from the county council."