Tue 12 Nov 2024
Exciting Update on Barbican House Purchase
City Council leader Jeremy Hilton dropped in on Gloucestershire Academy of Music (GAM) this week to celebrate councillors giving the green light for a permanent arts education hub in the heart of Gloucester.
In a pivotal move this month, they have agreed to sell Barbican House to GAM after leasing the Docks area building to us for the past decade.
It will mean we will have a bright and sustainable future in the city, to continue providing music, arts and drama for more than 600 participants, aged 3 to 83, on a weekly basis.
GAM is also home to the iconic Flowers Brass Band which was recently crowned GB National Champions. We also house the county’s Gamelan used for schools and other workshops.
GAM’s Executive Director Richie Ashton-Phillips said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have reached an agreement with Gloucester City Council to purchase Barbican House. This is a pivotal moment not only for our wonderful charity, but also for music and arts education in Gloucestershire.
“We can’t express how grateful we are to the City Council for their support and also for the generosity of everyone who donated towards our three-year fundraising appeal. From all the staff, teachers and hundreds of people young and old who benefit from our work every week… THANK YOU!”
Councillor Hilton (Lib Dem Kingsholm) was able to see young children taking their first musical steps at the Junior Department of the academy. He said: “We’re delighted to help secure a future for the Gloucestershire Academy of Music, ensuring that it can continue the valuable work it does for our community—and hopefully thrive for another 40 years and beyond.”
Cabinet member for Culture and Leisure Councillor Caroline Courtney, who also visited GAM, added: “Music and culture play a pivotal role in the life of any vibrant city, and not only enrich our daily lives but also contribute significantly to the economy. It is important that we do everything we can to support arts education and the creative sector so that they continue to make Gloucester a great city to live, work and visit.”
