Plans to assure the long-term viability of an arts and community centre in Wantage are set to be reviewed by The Vale of White Horse District Council's Cabinet.

The Beacon Arts and Community Centre offers a range of activities including live performances, cinema screenings, and various community events.

It also provides a venue for hire for wellness activities, dance and sports groups, community support, as well as special interest gatherings.

It serves as a designated 'Safe Space' and hosts a community larder every week.

A report is scheduled to be presented to the district council’s cabinet, which devises a path forward for the arts centre.

The ambition is to maximise community engagement and financial efficacy, and to secure the centre’s longevity.

The 18-month action plan laid out in the report aims to enhance in-house operations.

It involves the initiation of an Arts and Culture Strategy, practical improvements in show programming, and focusing on a stronger relationship with the community and local businesses.

The plan will also look at improving signage, marketing, branding, and mechanisms for securing extra grants and external funding.

The potential reinstallation of a coffee shop and the pursuit of finances for substantial decarbonisation work will also be put under consideration.

Local groups and organisations, some dealing with vulnerable sections of society, that already use the centre to host activities will be promoted to gain more visibility within the community.

Councillor Helen Pighills, cabinet member for community health and wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council said: "Investing in arts, culture and heritage in our district continues to be important for us as we know it contributes to quality of life and community wellbeing.

"Alongside the affordable shows it offers, The Beacon is also an indispensable resource for community activity.

"This is an exciting time for our arts and community centre.

"We’ve faced so many challenges over the last few years – with the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis, but we are hopeful there are many opportunities for us to now grow and flourish.

"Whilst financial efficiency is a focus for improvement, the Beacon provides a valuable public service and is a part of our ongoing, long-term commitment to invest in arts and culture for the wellbeing of our communities."

Over the past four years, the council has made several changes in the management and running of its arts service, with the goal of reducing costs.

View the full report and action plan online, and for more information about The Beacon Arts Centre, visit its website.