Youth art project under threat

An art-based youth centre has been threatened with closure only months after a £250,000 refit.

Kent County Council, which owns the Kent Artwise Factory in Ramsgate, is believed to be considering selling the site for redevelopment despite carrying out the work.

The authority said it intended to extend its facilities for young people in Ramsgate through the new Marlowe Academy community school, due to open in late 2005.

But Chris Bonner, a 16-year-old who has been going to Artwise for four years, said he was concerned young people from a deprived area would lose out if the project moved from its present site.

I'm really worried that the young people in the area will not have the same opportunities I have had Chris Bonner, 16

The teenager said he had taken part in pantomimes and art, drama and music projects thanks to Artwise.

"I'm really worried that the young people in the area will not have the same opportunities I have had for the past few years," he said.

"If the Academy is going to have recording studios and a theatre, are they not going to rent those out to other people across Thanet?

"We won't have the same amount of access as we have at the moment."

The premises were re-opened in September after a six-month closure to replace the roof and windows, repair the rotten drama studio floor and redecorate.

In a statement, Kent County Council said it was committed to providing facilities for young people in community schools.

"The council's Youth and Community Service is looking to extend its existing provision in Ramsgate through the development of a close working relationship with the Marlowe Academy," it said.

The school is expected to offer facilities including recording studios, rehearsal space, dance studios and a theatre.