Performing arts school launches £3m renovation bid

The Anlaby Road building has survived two world wars

A performing arts school in Hull is looking to raise £3m for building renovations.

Northern Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) is based in a Grade II*-listed building on Anlaby Road.

Built in 1904, the address has been in use as a performing arts centre ever since, but NAPA says the fabric of the building is now "deteriorating rapidly".

The Big Build fundraising campaign has been launched in line with the 120th birthday of the building on Saturday 18 May.

NAPA teaches singing, dance and drama to students

In a letter to friends of NAPA, Jules Blenkarn, chair of the board of trustees, said that the building had "brought people together as a centre for artists, performers and dreamers".

The building is in need of repairs to its exterior and roof, as well as repairs to the ceiling atriums and internal facilities, such as toilets and offices.

Mr Blenkarn said work was needed to ensure the building "is a safe environment and fit for purpose".

The figure of £3m had been estimated by a local contractor, and included project management as well as repairs.

'Now or never'

NAPA said it was working with a professional fundraiser to help write bids for grants and secure funding from corporate partners, but would also be relying on the efforts of the Friends of NAPA fundraising team.

Carl Wheatley, chief executive of NAPA, said there was a "long road ahead" to raise the funding needed.

He added: "But it’s now or never so that we can keep working with the young people of the city, raising aspirations and spreading the joy of the performing arts."

Follow BBC East Yorkshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail]