The Public arts centre opens

Jun 30 2008 By Steve Johnson

THOUSANDS of people converged on West Bromwich’s £54 million interactive arts centre as the wraps finally came off.

The Public, millions of pounds over budget and two years later than planned, opened its doors with a fun-packed free festival programme over the weekend.

A wide-ranging feast of entertainment was laid on for people of all ages, including performances, music, children’s activities and guided tours of the building and the interactive Public Gallery within the iconic building.

Entry was free for the launch weekend, with thousands of people being taken on special guided tours of the Public Gallery.

But when the Public Gallery is finally completed, adults will be charged just under £7 admission.

The Public, the idea for which was first mooted 15 years ago by former Jubilee Arts supremo Sylvia King, is one of Britain’s largest and most ambitious cultural building projects.

The centre is at the heart of the £500 million regeneration of West Bromwich town centre.

Housing the Public Gallery, as well as a theatre, recording studios, creative office space, event and conference facilities for business hire, together with a cafe bar and restaurant, officials hope The Public will become the new and extensive creative hub and social centre for the borough of Sandwell.

The theatre is the first purpose-built such facility in West Bromwich since The Plaza closed its doors more than 40 years ago.

Officials stress that entry to The Public building itself is free to anyone.

Between now and July 19, over 1,000 residents across Sandwell will be offered free tickets to visit The Gallery.