An ambitious bid to transform an old Perthshire library into a thriving arts hub has taken a major leap forward.
Plans have been tabled to create a permanent base for the Strathearn Artspace project in Crieff.
The charity behind the venture struck a deal to lease the Comrie Street library two years ago and if project leaders can secure planning permission that will open the doors to a raft of funding opportunities and pave the way for a series of improvements.
They hope to install a £60,000 cinema system at the venue as part of a £360,000 makeover, creating a magnet for culture vultures throughout the area.
The scheme has won backing from a variety of celebrities, including uncle and nephew Star Wars actors Ewan McGregor and Dennis Lawson.
The plan has been warmly welcomed by the area’s community council, which has told Perth and Kinross Council planners that the project would provide “much- needed exhibition and performance space” in the town.
Next month the public will be given the chance to view the proposals as part of a consultation exercise.
“As part of our application, we are expected to show that at least 10% of the local community are in favour of the plan,” said project leader David Campbell.
“That means we need to get about 450 signatures, although we are well on our way, with around 250 names last time I checked.”
The library closed its doors in 2009, when it was moved into the local secondary school.
Artspace has been using the facility for the past year and has hosted a series of popular exhibitions and events, including a showing of 1983 comedy Local Hero with guests Dennis Lawson and Jennifer Black, who played a married couple in the film.
Mr Campbell said: “Before it became a library, the building was used as a masonic hall so it already had a stage which we have been using for various performances.
“Apparently Billy Connelly played here during the 1960s.
“It’s certainly ideal for our needs but we are looking at making improvements.
He went on: “The feedback we’ve got so far has been very positive. Hopefully with this planning application we are pushing against an open door, but we can’t be complacent.”
If successful, the hall will be used for regular exhibition and recreational workshops, as well as for a more extensive range of exhibitions.
The plan is to use the cinema screen to show a selection of new blockbusters and art houses movies, as well as hosting theme series and even film festivals.
Project leaders also want to create a dedicated arts supply shop, which would also sell music and books, and an artists’ lounge.
The plans will be on display at the public consulation at the Crieff Community Campus on Feburary 7 from 1pm to 4pm.