Bishop's Stortford Town Council, East Herts District Council and the Rhodes Birthplace Trust are working together to create an exciting arts venue for the 21st century, to be sited at Old River Lane in Bishop's Stortford. It is expected that the brand new venue will incorporate a 500+ seat auditorium, a 4-5 screen cinema, a café and bar and all the necessary supporting facilities. It may also incorporate the library. The timescale is yet to be finalised however it is currently expected that it will open in 2022/23.
A steering group has been formed to lead the development of the venue and its governance. The group, which will consist of nine individuals supported by employees from EHDC, BSTC and Rhodes, will have responsibility for the:
· Physical brief for the new Arts Centre
· Management arrangements for the new Arts Centre
· Vision for the operational development of the arts centre, marketing, fundraising and other key elements of the new Arts Centre's operations
· Proposals for the governance to take effect before the centre becomes operational
Six members of the group have been nominated by the supporting parties. Three independent members are now sought. This is an exciting role which will shape the centre of Bishop's Stortford and its provision for the Arts for the next 50 years or more.
Candidates should be knowledgeable, dedicated and willing to work collaboratively towards the realisation of the vision for the site. Candidates with experience or knowledge in accountancy, legal matters, organisational development/HR, property or the management of cultural buildings/facilities are especially welcome.
The group will meet as often as necessary to achieve the vision. Initially it is expected that meetings which will typically be two hours long will be approximately monthly. Meetings will generally be Monday-Friday and may be during the day time, facilities to join by telephone or video will be provided.
The intent is to create, at an appropriate point, a charitable organisation which will run the venue once it opens. It is likely that some members of the steering group will wish to become trustees of this organisation to continue the work into the operational phase.
These roles are not remunerated. Candidates must be fully committed to the Nolan seven principles of public life.
If you're interested, please submit a CV and a covering letter setting out why you wish to be involved and what you feel you will contribute to:
Project Manager, Old River Lane, East Herts District Council, Wallfields, Pegs Lane, Hertford, SG13 8EQ or e-mail: old.riverlane@eastherts.gov.uk
Find out more about the Rhodes Birthplace Trust
