A derelict building in the centre of Bolsover is set to be turned into a cultural hub, despite the Tory governments’ clear lack of backing for the town.
In January 2023, the conservatives rejected Bolsover District Council’s £14.2million bid to regenerate Bolsover, but the Labour controlled authority are now putting their ambitions into place to create the cultural hub, despite the set-back.
Oxcroft House has lain empty for a number of years and Labour is planning to bring the site back into use which would include refurbishing it to become a cultural, arts and heritage base as well as the base for youth engagement activities.
Steve Fritchley, Labour Leader at the Council said, “Just because the government does not believe Bolsover is worthy of any investment, does not mean that we as a Labour Council think the same. We believe the town and its residents deserve the very best that’s why we are ploughing on with our ambitions and looking at the schemes we can put into place to bring about change in the town.
“Refurbishing Oxcroft House is the first step. It will take time. It will take money. But we can assure our residents that we will do everything in our power to make things happen and develop Bolsover into a major tourist destination that has not only the Castle, but a thriving high street and cultural activities for people to take part in and enjoy.”
Once refurbished the Council will look at what options are available to them including setting up a Voluntary Community Social Enterprise Partnership to run the building on a long-term peppercorn rent basis.
Labour locally is delivering. Labour in government will also deliver.