‘Please re-think arts centre cut’

Feb 21 2008 by Peter Collins, South Wales Echo

CALLS for arts chiefs to rethink a decision to withdraw a £45,379 grant from the St Donats Arts Centre have been made by two leading politicians in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Councillor Jeff James, former Conservative leader of the Vale council has written to Professor Dai Smith, chairman of the Arts Council of Wales, criticising it for plunging the renowned centre into a “crisis.”

Meanwhile, Plaid AM Chris Franks, who is also a Vale councillor has raised the issue with Heritage Minister, Rhodri Glyn Thomas.

In his letter, Coun James said: “St Donats Arts Centre is not only a standalone venue for the arts but is in fact the hub of artistic activity in the Vale of Glamorgan with a diverse range of performing events and displays of art.

“It is used as a springboard for other successful artistic events such as the Vale of Glamorgan Festival of Music and the very successful Beyond the Border international storytelling festival.”

Mr Franks said: " I am writing to the Arts Council to request that they do not simply abandon St Donats Arts Centre.

“The centre is of national importance, and not only serves the rural vale but a much wider area.”

Meanwhile, more than 1,000 people from around the world have signed the centre’s on-line petition calling for the decision to be reversed.