A MULTI-MILLION pound arts centre could be the latest addition to The Works site in Ebbw Vale.

The results of a feasibility study for a theatre, 100-seat studio cinema, dance studio, outdoor performance space and art galleries will be discussed by Blaenau Gwent councillors at next week’s executive meeting.

The study carried out Ash Sakula Consultants suggests the centre, estimated to cost between £7 million and £10 million, could be built at the northern end of the site, near the General Offices, Learning Zone and train station to maximise the flow of people to the site and make access to the town centre easy.

The building could also provide residential accommodation for artists and conference delegates making Ebbw Vale an attractive place to live, work and visit.

The report, which recommends councillors approve the consultant's report so the project can move forward, says the need for Beaufort Theatre and Ballroom and the Brynmawr's Market Hall Cinema would be reviewed if it is certain the scheme would include a cinema.

The £350 million regeneration of the former steelworks is now in its fifth year and is the biggest project of its kind in Wales.

The Works was taken over by Blaenau Gwent council and the Welsh Assembly in 2005 and it has since hosted the National Eisteddfod and is home to the 96-bed Ysbyty Aneurin Bevan hospital.

An environmental resource centre, where the community can learn about ecology and the Central Valley Wetland Park, is now open along with three low energy homes built as part of the Welsh Future Homes project.

Projects due for completion this year include the conversion of the grade-two listed former General Offices into a genealogy centre with 5D cinema, while work continues on the Learning Zone set to provide academic and vocational courses for post 16 learners.