Raising the Bar

This event was held at the Phoenix Theatre at New College on Wednesday 19 April from 7-9pm with the intention of informing members of the public about the plans for the new museum and art gallery in the centre of town, on the site of the former car park beside the Wyvern Theatre.
I've taken some photos from the Total Swindon page, although they have written Hadrian Ellory-van Dekekr into the evening, he wasn't there. In the photo below you can see members of the Trust, Cllr Garry Perkins and Cllr David Renard, leader of the Council and Jason Parker of Make Architects

 David Renard below talking about the commitment of the council to the project.

 Robert Hiscox, Chair of the trustees, who outlined the benefits of the new museum and art gallery to the town.

The evening was a tremendous success with a packed house, and great support expressed for the project. A vote at the end of the event revealed 140 people for the project and 6 against.
People have been encouraged to get in touch with the Trust via their website to offer support, and have been doing so. Lots of engagement work will be taking place before the bid is submitted in November. The interim director, Rod Hebden of the project has just been appointed this week.
It's worth adding a couple of views of the proposed new building, the first a romantic evening view

 and a photo of the model which can be seen at the museum

And some of the audience just leaving the event:

 The excitement in the room was palpable, and is continuing with the positivity exuding from Rod Hebden.

Great article in yesterday's Swindon Advertiser: http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/15251724.Trust_appoints_new_Director_to_lead_museum_and_gallery_bid/