AN ‘EXCITING’ new outdoor performance space has been created in Evesham thanks to support from the district council.
THE impressive 250-seater amphitheatre has been created by a group of dedicated volunteers, led by The Lenches Sports and Recreation Club working with London-based acoustic specialists SWAP architects.
The £250,000 venue, on Ab Lench Road, provides a high-quality space to put on live entertainment, theatre and community events.
It has already hosted its first performances to rave reviews and a full programme is lined-up for this summer, with outdoor cinema events also in the works.
Wychavon District Council backed the project by giving South Lenches Parish Council £95,000 from its Community Legacy Grant scheme.
Another £19,000 came from Wychavon’s share of the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Scheme. Another £20,000 came from the Garfield Weston Foundation.
The rest of the money came from community fund-raising events and a generous donation from building material supplier Jewson.
A grant of £5,000 from National Grid’s Community Matters Greenspaces Initiative has also helped plant 85 trees and bulbs across the site.
A second phase of the project is set for completion this year and includes a two-storey building built next to the current sports and recreation club pavilion.
This will provide storage space along with a multi-use room for hire with a balcony offering spectacular views of the stage below.
Neil Pearce, chairman of The Lenches Amphitheatre Committee, said: “This is an incredibly exciting and unique community-led project.
“We are all very proud of this facility and we look forward to welcoming residents and visitors this summer for another exhilarating programme of family events and shows.”
Volunteers are needed to help support live shows and look after the amphitheatre. Email [email protected] for more information.
Councillor Rob Adams, executive board member for stronger communities, culture and sport on Wychavon District Council, said: “This is a spectacular project which has created a first-class facility for residents across the district and another example of how we are investing to make a lasting difference to our communities.”
Visit www.lenchestheatre.co.uk for more information.
