While we have to remain closed for the time being, plans are being progressed to get our doors open again. We also have to keep our eyes open to opportunities not only to strengthen our financial position but also to enhance our core mission - being an Arts Centre and bringing culture to our community. For some time now we have been exploring, with Great Torrington Town Council, Torridge District Council and Petroc, a fascinating avenue to bring our beloved neighbour, The Globe Hotel, back into active life. And we would love to hear your thoughts on this, please!
The innovative concept is for the building to be acquired through a community share issue - meaning that it will be owned by our community, rather than money being given as a donation. There would be potential for those shares to be recouped, but the crucial point is that it would also give shareholders a voice. The hotel will then be run by Petroc as a working hotel, offering up to degree-level apprenticeship courses in Hospitality and Tourism, which would be the first ever such course in Torridge, and the first hotel of this kind in the South West. But it will only work with community backing and if the quality of offer for the hotel, food and drink and even a co-working space are all delivered really well.
So whether you are a local who would just love to grab a drink or some food before a show or someone coming to an event from further afield who would benefit from a bed next door, your thoughts would be hugely welcome, please. The survey at bit.ly/TheGlobeTorrington really does only take a few minutes but will be crucial to ensure that we get this right!
Thank you!