A NEW community arts centre could be created in East Lancashire thanks to a £150,000 cash injection.

Bosses at Hyndburn Council said they wanted to "breathe life" into Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre, Union Road, by funding an upgrade.

The theatre is often used for small-level productions and upcoming events include a recent performance by tribute act "Abba Magic".

It is hoped to convert the facility into a multi-purpose venue to increase its popula-rity. Extra cash could also be sought from other funders.

Hyndburn Council leader Coun Peter Britcliffe said: "My aim is to breathe life into the Ossy Civic. We have many talented people in the borough and this upgrade will provide them with excellent facilities for the future."

Consultant Gayle Knight has been tasked with conducting a feasibility study of the theatre, which will look at whether it can be converted into a multi-purpose, community arts cent-re. It will assess whether there is the demand for such a venue in Hyndburn and what work is required on the building to make it suitable for that use.

Ms Knight said: "An arts centre of this type will provide activities for young and old alike. It will develop its own performances for local people to participate in and to watch and will contribute to the regeneration of the whole borough."

The final report, which has been funded by Arts Council of England will be presented at the Oswaldtwistle Area Coun-cil meeting in March.

If Hyndburn Council agree with the findings it is likely that Ms Knight will continue to develop the project over the coming months.

Ms Knight has been connected to the theatre for a long time, particularly in her role with the amateur dramatic group Oswaldtwistle Players.

Clare Highton, Oswaldtwistle Players secretary, said: it was hoped money would be spent on improving the stage, sound system, lighting as well as the general facilities.

It is also hoped to create a smaller "studio" stage on the ground floor of the building by demolishing several rooms which are used for storage.

Hyndburn Council has set aside £150,000 for redevelop-ment work should the feasibility study show that there is sufficient demand to regenerate the theatre, and funding applications will also be made to various agencies.