Liverpool city centre’s oldest building, the Bluecoat, is planning a significant programme of “re-ordering, refurbishment and development”.

The arts and events hub, which underwent a major refurbishment in 2008, is seeking a grant from Liverpool City Council to develop an application to the Arts Council England (ACE) for a “comprehensive £3-4 million capital development”.

Cabinet members will be asked later this week (22 April), to approve the plans which the ACE is “actively encouraging” according to a cabinet report.

The report outlines that the building “requires alteration and improvement to fully achieve its potential”.

The cost of the development work, which looks to “address the challenges caused by the current configuration of the building”, is estimated at £125,000.

This initial programme of works is the first stage of the proposed strategy which is required to find a sustainable funding structure for the site which is less heavily reliant upon public funds.

The report adds that, “Bluecoat has been developing alternative financial models and is currently actively seeking external external expertise to assist them. Successful delivery of their overall capital programme will generate new income streams that will be used to replace some of the council revenue funding”.

Over 30 creative industries including artists, graphic designers, small arts organisations, craftspeople and retailers are housed in the Bluecoat alongside its four galleries.

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