A move to create a new community arts space in Pollokshields is currently underway.
Pollokshields Community Council is exploring potential locations for a venue following the closure of the Pollokshields Playhouse on Albert Drive.
The Playhouse closed its doors on October 1 after the lease expired on previously derelict ground.
A variety of music, theatre, art and children’s events has been hosted at the transformed site in the past 12 months.
Michelle Montgomery Masters, community engagement liaison officer for Glasgow City Council, led the playhouse project and is keen to have it replicated elsewhere in the community.
She said: “Following the closure of the Playhouse, we will take a pause, then undergo a period of evaluation of the venture.
“However, given the success of the playhouse, we hope to find another venue within the community and re-open.”
Pollokshields community council raised £40,000 to finance the playhouse with donations from public bodies and charities.
Michelle hopes extra funding will allow for a new exhibition space to be established and pointed to the positive impact of the venue on the local community: “As well as attracting a great number of visitors, we also had a variety of groups and individuals take part in the events.
“Those who are unemployed, have mental health problems or low self-esteem got involved.
“Meanwhile the likes of the local girl guides and care workers also helped with fundraising and organising events.”
David Meikle, local councillor for Pollokshields, also hailed the achievements of the playhouse and backed the move for the project to be extended: “I’m keen that playhouse continues – what’s key now is locating a new site where it can be situated and I will do what I can to assist with this.
“Hopefully the Playhouse will be open and holding events again soon.”
A location for the new community venue is yet to be established.
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Glasgow Southside Gazette 