23 January, 2006

A computer-generated image of what the inside of the new public venue at the heart of the Cattle Market development in Bury St Edmunds could look like has been released today. The release coincides with a report to the Cattle Market Redevelopment Working Party ( Paper W525) which outlines progress on the venue and opportunities for partnership working.

It shows a gloriously warm wood interior, with a high windowed roof letting natural light flood in during the day. The picture demonstrates what the inside would be like with the moveable floor lowered, so raked seating could be used for stage events. All around are galleries, with further seating and standing room, showing how it could be used "in the round" as events often were in Shakespeare's day.

But while the galleries and use of wood give a nod to the past, especially important in a town such as Bury St Edmunds with its history stretching back to the stone and timber buildings of Norman times, the venue will be fit for the 21st century with its modern acoustics, technical gallery, staging, restaurant, conference and backstage facilities. Flexibility is the key - the range of uses and events that can be staged at the venue will be beyond those currently available in the town.

Cllr John Griffiths, Council Leader and Chairman of the Working Party, said:

"We are now getting more of an idea about what this exciting new building, designed to be the heart of the new Cattle Market development, will look like. Meanwhile, we are also carrying out a tremendous amount of work to ensure it stays within budget."

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