Six-figure boost for conversion of historic property
A large Grade II* listed building in Malton, North Yorkshire, has received a major funding boost for its ongoing transformation.
As part of the Government’s Levelling Up programme, the project has received £370,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, administered by North Yorkshire Council.
Restoration and re-modelling of the historic building will feature modern facilities for community use, complete with a 600-seat auditorium, one of the largest such spaces in Ryedale.
Paul Emberley, trustee and Wesley Centre development lead, said: “It’s an exciting milestone for Malton after many years of work to help realise our vision, particularly for the benefit of the wider community.
“So far, we’ve secured total investment funding for the scheme of almost £2m – which is testament to the confidence major funders have in our overall vision.”
The building had twice been put up for sale over the last century and was at risk of permanent closure or demolition after discovery of a significant structural issue with its roof in September 2015.
As well as remaining a place of worship, as it has been continually since 1811, the Wesley Centre will serve a range of social needs, as well as being a centre for the classical arts and community recreational use. Detailed planning to redevelop the building began in 2016.
To date, the Methodist Church has been one of the largest donors to the project, providing over £500,000.
Previous support has come from the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage, other grant trusts and donor funders.
Kevin Hollinrake, member of Parliament for Thirsk and Malton, said: “The Wesley Centre is an important part of Malton’s heritage and sits at the very heart of our community.
“This funding will help to ensure its future as a vibrant hub for classical music, an array of public functions, and as a vital community resource for future generations.”
Councillor Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council, said: “The Wesley Centre has served the people of Malton and Norton for over 200 years, and we believe the positive impact of the changes now being made will be of significant benefit to an expanding community and for the rural economy as a whole in this part of southern Ryedale.”
Malton’s divisional member for North Yorkshire Council, Cllr Lindsay Burr, added: “I’m tremendously pleased to be able to support this project. The Wesley Centre scheme is inspirational and its impact on this community will be profound for many years to come.”
Extensive works include a new entrance lobby, facilities for the disabled, a concert and events box office, a community café, and purpose-built facilities for the Malton Free Fridge, which provides free surplus food to more than 30,000 people a year.
The final phase of the project is expected to start in the autumn, with a new three-storey accessible annex at the rear of the building. It will contain meeting spaces, more toilets, as well as a large events kitchen for banqueting and other catering.
The building is expected to be completed and re-opened to the public in late spring 2024.
