It’s been a while since we last shared news on Exchange – our capital project to create a new professional producing and receiving theatre venue dedicated to presenting performances for children, young people and families as well as offer an accessible and affordable event space for the local community. We know many of you are eager to hear about the progress.
Exchange Receives Funding Boost
We are delighted to acknowledge The Wolfson Foundation has awarded an £80,000 grant towards the re-development of Exchange, and that Renfrewshire Council has allocated £120,000 of match funding to help enable the latest phase of works. The next phase of the build will see the completion of an 80-100 seat flexible studio theatre and a family friendly performance café/bar.
Chief Executive, Grant Mason, PACE said: “We are extremely grateful for these generous awards in support of our vision to provide life-changing opportunities for young people and the local community.”
Project Update
Unfortunately, our previously appointed construction company unexpectedly went into liquidation before the last phase of works was completed. As soon as we were informed, our trustees and professional advisors moved quickly to secure the site and review the next steps. Since then, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to get the project back on track as smoothly as possible.
The good news is that with additional funding secured we are in negotiations with new contractors, with the aim of completing Phase 2 this year. But we still need a little more help. Therefore, we are appealing to companies and professionals who can donate time, equipment or expertise, to help us finish the space later in the year. The names of these ‘Exchange Heroes’ will be permanently featured in the new building for posterity.
Our priority remains delivering a high-quality, sector-leading venue that will serve our community for many years to come. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement. We’ll share more updates soon.
Grant Mason, Chief Executive, PACE Theatre said:
“While we were disappointed by this setback, which left us both out of pocket and behind schedule, our focus has been firmly on protecting the project and ensuring its successful completion. We are grateful for the continued support of our community and funding partners during this period. Our priority remains the delivery of a high-quality space that will serve and benefit the community for many years to come.”
Get Involved
We are appealing to businesses and individuals to support the project by donating to their Million Pound Wall campaign, or offering in-kind support, to reach the fundraising total required to help complete the project in an increasingly challenging financial climate. If you know a business who can support with the fixtures and fittings stage of the build, please get in touch at pace@pacetheatre.co.uk
Support our Million Pound Wall
Be a part of the creation of Exchange by securing a block on our supporter’s wall for you, a loved one or a business. The Million Pound Wall will form a prominent part of the building, once complete, and until then will be created digitally. Everyone who buys a brick in our Million Pound Wall in support of Exchange Theatre will receive a souvenir pack ideal for gifting, including a Thankyou card.
Fundraising Events
We are planning some exciting fundraising events for later in the year so keep your eyes peeled on our socials for updates. First up is our Thrift for Exchange Sale – we’re having a clear out so bag yourself a bargain. Our sale will featuring a variety of pre-loved items including clothing, footwear, accessories and books. All proceeds go towards Exchange.
PACE at The Paisley Centre | Sat 13 June: 11am – 2pm
