PLANS for Bromsgrove’s well-loved arts venue Artrix are finally being drawn up as ‘community-minded people’ are urged to volunteer their time.

Trustees have commissioned specialist consultancy FEI to produce a business plan which will identify the level of funding and other resources that would be required to bring a new arts and cultural operation to the closed facility.

FEI, which is an Arts Council England business and financial advisor, is expected to give the plans to the Artrix Holding Trust in April.

Chair of the Artrix Holding Trust, Peter Whittaker, said: “The trustees have now commissioned a business plan which will hopefully tell us what could be achievable out of Artrix and how much that would cost.

“That will show us the true roadmap to what we as trustees, along with so many people, want for Artrix. We know that any operation will need some level of subsidy and support. This plan will tell us how much and what that would look like, and kickstart some more engagement with the community.”

The business plan will identify the funding gap to be filled along with any other requirements needed to return the arts to Bromsgrove.

Mr Whittaker added: “Everyone will have seen the outpourings of support for Artrix. That support is going to be vital because this is not big business. We’ve got this great building but ultimately we’re community trustees.

“To that aim we’re calling out to anyone who might want to volunteer their services to Artrix. Whether you want to give a couple of hours here and there, or get more heavily involved, we want to hear from you and start building a list of community-minded people who wish to be involved. Perhaps you have even retired from the arts world but still want to contribute to a sustainable local community arts project. We’d love to hear from you.”

To register your interest in any future volunteering opportunities at Artrix, please email artrix.trust.info@bromsgrove.gov.uk.