SOUTHEND High Street is set for a huge boost with a new arts and cultural centre to breathe new life into the town centre.

Opening in July, 90 High Street - the old Morrisons mini-supermarket near the old Ann Summers store - will be transformed into “The Ironworks”.

This will be a “multi-functional” centre to be rented out to businesses, community groups and arts companies for a minimum of three months.

The name is inspired by the building’s original use - built for iron-mongering more than a century ago.

A performance area for Ted talks and open mic events will be installed while enterprises such as PlastiCity - a driving force in boosting plastic recycling - have already registered their interest in using the building to deter items going to landfill.

The new project can go ahead after Southend Council successfully bid to the Government’s Local Growth Fund and used the funds to acquire the property - giving the council another stake in the high street following its purchase of the Victoria Shopping Centre.

Organisations were then asked to put forward ideas with Kiwi Community Events Community Interest Company winning the chance to partner with the council.

Natalie Solomons, Kiwi director and project manager, said although funding had been granted to cover rent and rates for two years they were hoping to stay in the High Street for the long term.

She said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded this magnificent building on behalf of our City’s community, an iconic piece of architecture in the heart of the High Street.

“If you want to be a part of it, whether you want to trade, exhibit, hold a workshop, we are open to all suggestions. The Ironworks will be amazing and we can’t wait to get the ball rolling with its development.”

Talks have also started with arts and crafts groups to put on sessions in the space to improve people’s mental health.

Southend Council leader, Ian Gilbert, said the new centre would have a positive knock-on effect on other businesses in the city centre.

He said: “This new arts and cultural centre will be a big boost for the High Street and will also provide residents with valuable skills to help with personal wellbeing and growth. Projects to invest in and recover our High Street are going well, with an increasing number of organisations being drawn to our new City. I look forward to welcoming even more businesses filling our empty units.”

To register interest email info@kiwiproductions.co.uk.