Inspire Culture, Learning and Libraries has opened its new home on the mezzanine floor of the historic Buttermarket building in Newark.
Coun Rhona Holloway, portfolio holder for Economic Development and Visitors at Newark and Sherwood District Council, which owns the building, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to bring back into use the upper floor at the Buttermarket and provide a wealth of opportunities for local residents and visitors, which will not only help develop individual’s skills, but also to add to the vibrancy of the town centre offer in Newark. I look forward to the varied programme of activity that Inspire will be bringing to the Buttermarket.”
Inspire offers adult learning courses for the community and Inspire College provision for those aged 16 to 19.
Coun John Cottee, cabinet member for communities at Nottinghamshire County Council, added: “Inspire at the Buttermarket will create a lively new hub in the heart of Newark for local people to come together and take part in culture and learning activities right on their doorstep.
“The new space, housed in this beautiful, historic building, will offer a range of Inspire’s award-winning learning courses for young people and adults. It will be a wonderful addition to the area, creating even more opportunities for residents to connect, learn and create.”
Clare Janes, Inspire centre manager for the Buttermarket, said: “As well as the many learning opportunities on offer at the new venue, we will be linking with our partners at Newark and Sherwood District Council, Newark Town Council, and Newark Towns Fund Board to ensure we become an integral part of the events culture of the town.
“We are currently planning our first event, linking in with the town’s Christmas Light Switch-On celebrations on Sunday 27 November.
“We’ll be there from 12noon until 4pm, and visitors can make their own Christmas decorations to help us decorate the Buttermarket, whilst they enjoy some seasonal music and mulled wine.
“We’re very excited to show you what we’ve been up to – you can book a course now and see the wonderful building whilst gaining new skills.”
To find out more about Inspire at the Buttermarket, including to book courses, visit inspireculture.org.uk/buttermarket