Local residents and organisations were invited to EVI (on the 26th Feb 09) for an update on the refurbishment of the building and to discuss any potential issues people may have in relation to the licensing and planning applications submitted by Promo Cymru.

The general consensus is that EVI’s refurbishment is in keeping with the original features, is attractive, is a great use of the building and an excellent facility. The former caretaker, Jill Beddoe commented on how lovely the building looked, thanks to all the refurbishment that has taken place, and would like to see youth centre activities for her grandchildren.

During the event, some local children popped in and we invited them to tell us what they would like to see at EVI. They would love to have climbing facilities, a cinema, painting classes and photography. Lets see what we can do!

Marco Gil-Cervantes, Promo-Cymru Chief Executive, talking to young people from the area.

Len Arthur, welcoming everyone toEVI

Julian Gardner from Promo-Cymru and Jane Lee, Blaenau Gwent CBC, during the question and answer session

Sam James, EVI Buildings and Facilities Administrator

Local resident filling out a questionnaire

Some of the attendees at the Open Evening…

1) Licensing – potential noise issues were raised, and the impact this could have on local residents – EVI will ensure that effective sound-proofing will be made in the recording studio, dance studio and the front door, and theatre blacks will also be used to reduce noise levels.
2) Parking is an issue at EVI – in the long term, discussions are underway with BGCBC to provide car parking in Church Street by demolishing the existing run down houses. There is also a possibility that the site behind EVI could be redeveloped for parking. In the short term, ample parking is available near The Walk shopping centre and initiatives to encourage car sharing and public/private transport will be available.
3) Pricing – EVI will provide a pricing structure that will benefit all members of the community. I.e., Local bands will have the option of using the recording studio/rehearsal space during peak and off peak times. This will enable bands with less money to utilise off peak times. There will also be charitable and commercial rates for office rental and room hire.
4) Partnership – the importance of partnership working and not duplicating existing services was raised. Links have been established and continue to be established with, i.e. Coleg Gwent, EVAD, Communities First and many other organisations.
5) The National Eistedfodd in 2010 is a key cultural event that EVI should be involved in – Vic Coughtrey invited Julian and Sam to attend the Visual Arts Sub committee to start developing these links.
6) Training will include taster sessions, professional workshops, OCN accredited courses, Apple Certified training and facilities will be in place for students, volunteers and training. There are no age restrictions.
7) Marketing of activities/courses is key, as many people do not get to hear about activities in the area. EVI will ensure that marketing is done on a regular basis, and in partnership with other organisations.

We also invited local residents to comment on the new Community Café. Most people would like to see a take away menu, to ensure the café is advertised effectively, and that the prices should be reasonable. There was also a request for fruit smoothies to be on the menu…

We welcome your thoughts, comments, memories and photos of the building, contact sam on 07977 810397, sam@create-at-evi.org or pop in for a chat..