THE Mercury has been given an exclusive glimpse of a proposed £6million arts venue in Bridgwater.

Bridgwater College wants to build a 350-seat performing arts centre, which would be used by students and the wider community.

It would be built on empty land next to College Way, which has been donated by Sedgemoor District Council.

The scheme is likely to go before the council's planning committee in April, and if approved, it could open in 2013. It would offer theatre performances, exhibitions, conferences and live concerts.

The college says it has funded the centre entirely out of its own pocket.

Vice-principal Mike Robbins said: “We will have a venue that the college can use for training and performances, but we are planning it would have the ability for local groups and the community to use, as well as touring groups and bands.

“We have been talking with everyone in the arts scene in and around Bridgwater and they have been supportive - we have been conscious of the need that the centre will work for everyone.”

Mr Robbins said the centre would create some new jobs and help attract more students to Bridgwater.

The centre plans, which have been drawn up by architects Austin-Smith: Lord and surveyors WT Hills, include a flexible 350-seat auditorium, an 11x11metre dance studio, a food and drinks outlet, changing rooms and a box office.

Bridgwater College principal Fiona McMillan said the centre would provide a “fantastic resource for students, businesses and the community”, and chair of governors Derek Randall said he was “delighted” to continue the investment in industry-standard facilities.

Charlie Dearden, director of Bridgwater Arts Centre, said additions to cultural and creative opportunities for the community were an added bonus amid budget cuts in the arts, while Terry Callow, chairman of Blake Drama Club, said the society was happy using Bridgwater Arts Centre for its performances.

BRIDGWATER College has given past students a sturdy platform as they reach for the stars. A number of performing and production arts students have gone on to study at illustrious universities up and down the country.

Carl Bradley, James Browne, Claire Switzer, Oliver Healey, Beth Milton, Hannah Switzer and Joseph Atwell have all progressed to the prestigious Italia Conte Academy.

Charlotte Dodson and Matthew Oram plied their trade at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and Ryan Lovett flew stateside to study at the American Academy for the Dramatic Arts.

Bridgwater College vice-principal Mike Robbins said: “A proper industry standard arts centre has been long overdue.

“Our students are going to have facilities they have needed for some time and it will increase the amount of future students wanting to study here from different areas.”