AN Andover-based charity will be opening a brand-new art space in a former travel agent unit in the town centre.

Test Valley Borough Council councillor Iris Andersen met with Chapel Arts Studios (CAS) on Monday, March 20 to hand over the keys to the former Hays Travel unit at 65 High Street.

CAS has received permission to transform the vacant unit into a community arts space.

Using funding from Arts Council England, it will provide a creative space to local residents as well as opportunities for local artists and creatives under the name CAS Community.

Cllr Andersen said: “I am extremely pleased that after much hard work we are finally able to deliver another creative space for the Andover community at the heart of the town.

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"I am looking forward to seeing this space become a thriving creative community. It’s another important step in Andover’s cultural regeneration project.”

Susanne Hasselmann, executive director for CAS, added: “ We are thrilled to be putting our vision for CAS Community and plans for the vacant unit into action.

"This art space will give local residents a welcoming home-from-home to learn new skills, be part of the growing creative community we have in Andover, as well as enjoying the proven benefits of art and creativity for health and wellbeing.’’

CAS is a socially-engaged, contemporary visual arts organisation, which exists to support and develop artists of all ages, to excel as a centre for contemporary visual arts and to deliver socially engaged arts programmes.

CAS is currently developing a programme of workshops, drop-in sessions and events.

Visit chapelartsstudios.co.uk for more information, updates and opportunities.