Grace ClarkeThe City of York Council confirmed in a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday night that funding has been approved for The Bonding Warehouse to be converted into a Digital Media & Cultural Centre.
In 2007 the door of The Bonding Warehouse were etched with the words “What else could you be?” – a seemingly philosophical inquiry, pondering the potential of the building which has lain empty since the start of the millennium. In January this year we asked; “Could York be about to add to its cultural credentials with the addition of a new riverside Media Arts Centre within the city walls?” The answer has now become revealed? Yes, probably.
In its day The Bonding Warehouse was a restaurant, a pub, and a live music venue. Even during its years of neglect it has been a centre for creatives. Often adorned with political messages, and inspirational graffiti. The Arts Barge is close by, ensuring the warehouse remains a constant feature in the backdrop of York’s creative scene.
A team of people have been working incredibly hard to position York as an international centre of Media Arts. Creating a connection between York’s 250 creative businesses, discussion led to the idea that York was lacking a creative hub. The Bonding Warehouse has since been bought by Grantside, the same company who are in the process of redeveloping the old Terry’s factory. The Warehouse would have ample room for the proposed recording and exhibition spaces, as well as cafés and room for fledgling businesses.
The proposed project underwent an eighteen-day feasibility study by Bar Lane Studios. Ben Clowes, the director of the studios told us: “We are at early stages of negotiations on a project that could deliver a digital media and cultural centre into the heart of York with new public space. The project has strong support from City of York Council, York & North Yorkshire LEP team, and the developer Grantside. All parties (private, public and third sector) are working towards a successful conclusion.”
There is no doubt that the Digital Media & Cultural Centre would be an invaluable asset to the local creative community and indeed the community at large.
