SUPPORTERS of a new arts and crafts centre at Princetown were celebrating this week after a £1.7-million funding package was agreed. The deal, between the Government Office South West, the South West Regional Development Agency, the Duchy of Cornwall and Devon County Council, ended a long period of planning and negotiation. Plymouth-based developers Rok will build the new centre to promote arts and crafts work from up and coming artists in the area. Construction on site begins in November to be completed by the end of July 2008. The development, called Duchy Square, will also house 17 small workshops and offices, a gallery for arts and crafts, and a teaching studio in the heart of the Dartmoor town. It will be built on the site of a former supermarket, since demolished, and a derelict building, Morwenna House. The land is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, who will remain the freeholders. The aim of the project, says the county council, is to regenerate the area by creating a tourist attraction to encourage more people to visit Princetown and offer opportunities to spend money in the local economy. By providing support to up and coming businesses, it is envisaged it will also help to ensure the long term success of many local enterprises. Alan Hosking, Devon Council Council member covering the Princetown area, said: ?I am very pleased this project is finally moving toward completion. ?I really welcome the regeneration that this development should bring to Princetown ? it is all part of the revitalisation of an area which has been deprived for some years.? Ann Inman, parish clerk for Dartmoor Forest Parish Council, was also delighted that the funding had been secured. She said: ?It is just going to be the flagship project for the village. Being at the entrance it will transform the whole outlook of the village.? The project will also use environmental construction techniques to minimise its carbon footprint. Employing triple glazing, grey water collection and recycled products where possible, the building design has been created to have minimal environmental impact, as it is located within a conservation area of Dartmoor National Park. Cllr Humphrey Temperley, executive member for strategic planning and regional affairs, said: ?Duchy Square will be a landmark building for Princetown and the surrounding area. ?Dartmoor has a rich heritage of arts and crafts and the centre will provide a focal point for business and the local community, as well as encouraging more visitors to the area. ?The plans to offer business development, skills and training mean that the project will be sustainable and viable into the long term, which is critical to regenerating rural areas. ?It will enhance existing commerce, and help residents create entrepreneurial opportunities, too, so the whole community should benefit.? Nigel Hoskin, chairman of the Dartmoor National Park Authority, said: ?The National Park Authority welcomes this news. As well as enhancing visitor experience to the area, this project will make a significant contribution to the regeneration of Princetown and the local economy. ?It will also provide new and welcomed opportunities for the local community.?
