Popular Music Studios Saved From Closure Set to Reopen This Month

A popular music studio which was saved from closure by a team of volunteers last year is set to reopen it doors to the public at the end of the month.

The Vic Studios – based at the Victoria Centre on Hill Street was set to close last year after Wrexham Council unveiled plans to scrap funding for the venue as part of the authority’s ongoing search to make financial savings.

In July a working group to take over the running of the Vic Studios was established and manage its transition from Council funding to an independent social enterprise.

On November 1st it was confirmed that the venue had been saved from closure by a social enterprise titled ‘The Vic Studios’. Six months after Council funding for Vic Studios ended, Wrexham’s unique music project has been given a new lease of life.

Vic Studios will reopen their doors to the public March 21st as a re-established not-for-profit company.

The move follows months of determined effort by a group of local arts industry and business experts, with regional and national support from musicians, parents, teachers, care professionals, media and politicians of all parties.

Agreement has been reached with the Council enabling Vic Studios to carry on operating from its facilities at the Victoria Centre on Hill Street in Wrexham.

Started in 2006, Vic Studios has become an essential part of the Wrexham music scene. Its rehearsal and recording facilities have helped launch the careers of many local bands and solo artists including current successes, Neck Deep.

The studios also play a vital role in providing confidence and skills-building opportunities for vulnerable children and disengaged young people with a wide range of behavioural, educational and social health needs.

Chris Lloyd, who chairs the Board of Vic Studios, said: “We are re-opening because the demand for what we do has never been higher. We couldn’t have got this far without the generous support we have received from business and charitable sources. We are now pursuing further funding and donations to back our long term plans to provide a wider range of services and create employment, work placement and volunteering opportunities.

“In the next few months we will celebrate our relaunch with events for volunteers, friends and supporters. As part of this, on May 14th the Vic Studios Stage in Queens Square, Wrexham, will feature as part of the Focus Wales festival.”

Vic Studio’s future success will depend on the continued support of the communities it serves. Individuals, groups and organisations interested in supporting its work should email [email protected].

For updates on opening hours, services and events follow @TheVicStudios on Twitter or connect on Facebook.

*Picture – Google Maps