Thornbury Community & Arts

Legalities

Thornbury Community and Arts (TCA) is a Community Interest Company (CIC) set up in 2022 to benefit the community, though it doesn’t have full charity status and thus lacks tax relief benefits. It can negotiate leases and operate like a business, with profit restrictions.

The Armstrong Hall Charitable Trust (AHT) owns the Armstrong Hall Complex (AHC) and is managed by a sole Trustee, which is Thornbury Town Council. A liaison group has been set up to co-ordinate the investigation work to modernize and operate the facility.  Four AHT representatives (who are also Councillors) and three TCA representatives meet monthly, and communicate often. Once AHT is satisfied with TCA’s compliance with safety and legal requirements, a lease will be drawn up, making AHT the landlord and TCA the tenant, allowing reopening works to begin.

TCA has now started to convert to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), a charity, qualifying for tax relief and better funding opportunities.

Finances

Former resident Maggie Lansdown has donated £350,000 for essential repairs to the AHC. The AHT will also contribute funds, including proceeds from the sale of Miss Saise’s Cottage and public donations. A fundraising programme, led by an experienced consultant, will begin soon to enhance the venue.

Operating the business

All aspects of operations are currently being planned. The size and layout of the venue provide excellent scope for activities to meet the needs and interests of all residents. We will be creating a business plan to test potential. In addition, a marketing team will engage with the community to identify new interests, as well as promote usage in the long run. Establishing communication channels with local entities (businesses, charities, community centres, schools, churches) will also be key.

As the project develops there will be more information about the future business and a new web page about the RENOVATION PROJECT AND PROGRESS.