Creative hub moves into disused bank building

Saltash Studio opened for the first time on Tuesday

A creative hub has been opened in Cornwall in a former bank building that has been empty for more than seven years.

The facility, known as Saltash Studios, in the centre of Saltash, features a creative studio space, flexible hot desks, meeting rooms, an events space and even a cinema.

Salt Arts CIC, a not-for-profit social enterprise, opened on Tuesday. All income generated by the hub will be reinvested in the facility.

Lindsay Endean, Salt Arts CIC director said: "We are so proud of what we have created and are enjoying welcoming people through the doors to join our co-work community."

She added: "The formerly dark and dirty bank is now light and spacious and we are very grateful to the many people who have volunteered time and skills to make this happen."

The new facility contains flexible hot desks, meeting rooms and a creative studio

Ms Endean said the refurbishment had cost about £150,000 with key funders including the Saltash Section 106 Fund and Cornwall Council's Community Levelling Up Programme which contributed more than £120,000.

Councillor Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council's portfolio holder for the economy, said:  "I'm delighted to announce £120,588.38 funding from our Good Growth Community Levelling Up Programme for this exciting project in the heart of Saltash.

"Not only will it provide a vibrant new facility for the community, but it also means one less empty building on our high streets."