Former library 'in safe hands', say new owners

The former library in King's Lynn, Norfolk has reopened as a performing arts base with plans to install a stage and community cafe.

The Garage Trust purchased the library, based at the Carnegie Building on London Road, from Norfolk County Council after a new £17m facility was built in the town centre.

Adam Taylor, chief executive of The Garage Trust, said the whole community would be invited to use the centre for drama, dance and performances.

The building was the subject of an unsuccessful legal challenge by another bidder.

The arts organisation was established in 2002 and aims to transform lives in Norwich and King's Lynn through music, theatre, dance classes and community activities.

Taylor said he understood why some people were worried but insisted "we are safe hands".

"We hope to continue the cultural legacy of the Carnegie by continuing to provide meaningful and engaging cultural experiences for the community."

Venue manager Megan Fox grew up in King's Lynn and believed moving into the new building was very exciting.

She said: "I often say I wish there was somewhere like this when I was growing up, so I'm really honoured to be able to work here and give that to the next generation of creatives."

While the focus of the group's sessions will be on performing arts, they also plan to ask the community what they would like the venue to offer.

Garage Trust executive director Carrie Mansfield said: "We want to make sure those doors stay open for the people of King's Lynn, and that they get a say in what we're going to do, how we're going to do it.

"We want to work with people on the feel of the space, asking what's going to encourage people to come through those doors and be creative in these spaces."

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