Forty-five local backers for Coaville's Lyceum project

The Council are looking to get £9million to build a new skills and arts centre.

The bid has been submitted by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC), in an public/private partnership with the owners of Coalville’s Belvoir Shopping Centre Gylo, and Stephenson College.

It is part of the Government's Levelling Up Fund, aimed at investing in local town centres.

The Lyceum will include:

• Educational facilities in association with SMB Group (Stephenson College)
• Flexible space for concerts, dance, film, exhibitions, conferences and other events
• Health and wellbeing related classes and drop-in sessions
• A large café opening onto a new outdoor community space and performance area

The hope is the centre will breathe 'new life' into the town and most the local economy. The Council said the plans had been, 'thoroughly assessed and shows excellent value for the public money requested by the bid.'

As one of the organisations to show their support, The National Forest's Chief Executive said:  “This bid provides the opportunity for much needed investment through arts and culture to transform the infrastructure of Coalville, much like our tree planting has transformed the landscape around it.”

The East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, local charity Enrych, and William Davis Homes also expressed their support.

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of NWLDC, said: “It’s very encouraging but not at all surprising to receive such clear support for Coalville. The town is in urgent need of investment and has been a priority for us for some time now and we’re starting to see many of our plans emerge. If we are successful in this bid for funding, the introduction of a dedicated space for skills and arts would be absolutely fantastic for the town. 

“I encourage everybody interested in supporting a vibrant new heart to Coalville to write to the Secretary of State and pledge their support.” 

A decision on the bid is expected from Government towards the end of the year.