A new art and photograph gallery space in Lichfield has been sponsored by a housing developer.
IM Land, which is building 750 homes at a development called The Lakes in Curborough.
The company has backed the Curborough Gallery at St Mary’s in Lichfield city centre.
Jonathan Dyke, director of IM Land, said: “When we were approached to assist with funding the gallery, we said yes with no hesitation as we could see the huge benefits local people would get from St Mary’s, which will provide access to a multi-use arts and heritage space.
“We loved the idea of breathing new life into this historic building.
“We understand the importance of providing shared community facilities for local people.
“At the Lakes at Curborough, we are looking to create a new inclusive neighbourhood, not just providing much needed new homes, but also a sustainable development with green spaces, play areas and sports pitches for all to enjoy.”
St Mary’s re-opened to visitors at the end of last year and has already enjoyed several sell out concerts in the performing arts space, and numbers to the new library almost doubled in the first month of opening.
Louise Fleming, vice chair of trustees at St Mary’s said: “Without the generous support of companies such as IM Land we would not be able to ensure future generations of Lichfield residents are able to enjoy this rich cultural facility and create new life for one of the city centre’s most historic buildings.
“All cities are having to evolve and reinvent their buildings. St Mary’s is now at the heart of our community and will hopefully have a bright new future for all to enjoy.”
