Herald - Issue 493

Page 14 • The HERALD • 25th June 2026 v READ THE HERALD ONLINE: www.herald-publishing.co.uk v All aspects of Plastering undertaken Fully Qualified, Reliable, Quality Service Free Quotations Call Joe: 07713 724610 @jbplastering92 New Mobile Arts Space Set To Bring Performances And Creative Activity To Every Corner Of The New Forest Communities from Totton and Hythe to Fordingbridge and New Milton could soon enjoy performances and creative activity on their doorstep, with plans for a Designed by Create 180 (responsible for sets for Dr Who and Michael McIntyre’s Big Night Out), the venue will be a fully transportable, all-weather structure that can be set up in locations including village greens, town squares, car parks and recreation grounds. Designed to be both practical and visually striking it will be a exible platform for plays, bands, comedies, exhibitions and workshops. e structure will be based at Applemore College, where it will support drama and music sessions, school performances, talks and community events. In summer, Culture In Common will tour it across the district as a pop-up addition to community events, bringing creativity directly to the people where they are. At the heart of the project is a commitment to improving access to arts and culture. By taking creative activity beyond traditional venues and into ‘schools, town squares and parks, the initiative aims to reach people who might not otherwise take part. Students at Applemore College have contributed ideas to the design process and Applemore College will play a key role as the project’s home base. Head Teacher Clare Williams said: “The Mobile Arts Centre will provide a flexible, inclusive and inspiring space. It will allow creativity to flourish beyond the limitations of our current facilities, encouraging participation and pride across our community.” Young people have already helped shape the vision through workshops, contributing ideas about how the structure could look and function. eir involvement re ects a wider ambition to ensure the project is rooted in local creativity and collaboration. Once complete, the venue will support professional artists, community groups and local organisations, while also providing a platform for emerging talent. e project is intended to strengthen connections between communities and broaden cultural opportunities across the district. Funded through developer contributions allocated by New Forest District Council, the project represents an investment in community wellbeing and local cultural participation. e mobile arts space will be touring this summer. new mobile arts space underway. New Forest District Council in partnership with Culture In Common, SPUD and Applemore College, are developing a travelling arts venue that will bring performances, workshops and creative experiences directly into local towns and villages. A mock up of the Mobile Arts Space

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