Ambitious plans to transform a redundant school into an arts centre for Perth have been drawn up.
A collaborative joint venture by the WASPS Artists’ Studios, Perth Contemporary Arts Trust and Perth and Kinross Council, the proposal will be thrown open to public scrutiny at the weekend.
“We have a vision for a new creative future at the former St John’s Primary School in Stormont Street,” said a project spokesperson.
“The primary focus is on creating a contemporary exhibition space, artists’ studios and a multi-functional space for workshops, performance and masterclasses etc.
“Other plans include video/ computer lab, a cafe and, in the school grounds, a community garden.
“At this stage, the plans are still fluid and ideas suggested for the space include print workshop, library and recording studio.
“Organisations and individuals have already been consulted on how they wish this project to develop but we are aware that this may not have reached everyone.”
Billed as “a new future” for the school, which closed four years ago, the public has been invited to Perth Museum and Art Gallery on Saturday between 10am and 4pm to view the plans.
In particular, the group would like to meet people who went to the school or taught there, to help with its understanding of the building and its history.
It is also seen as an opportunity for people to reminisce about the role the city centre school played in local life over the years.
“Come along, view the plans, tells us what you think and share your memories,” said the spokesperson.
Award-winning Perth architect Fergus Purdie, who is involved in the proposal, said that neighbouring properties had been leafleted to encourage people to attend.
Mr Purdie said: “It fits in well with the ambitions and aspirations for the city.
“The plans have been well supported. We need a real focus for the visual arts.”
Mr Purdie said the building, which dates from 1932, had great potential as the well lit classrooms were ideal for an arts project.
As the project progresses, various funding sources will be explored and it is hoped it could become a reality by 2018.
A council spokesperson said the proposals were included in the draft Perth City Plan, which had already been the subject of recent public consultation.
“WASPS Studios have considerable experience and expertise in the development of cultural facilities and currently accommodate 800 artists and 23 arts organisations in 18 buildings across Scotland,” they added.
“WASPS has been undertaking feasibility work to assess the demand for creative space locally.”