A MAJOR new arts development is on the way - if Lottery chiefs look favourably on the project.

Thirsk-based Rural Arts North Yorkshire left old cramped premises and moved into the town's old courthouse in March last year.

And now managers have submitted an application for £300,000 worth of Lottery funding to transform the building's interior.

The idea is not only to provide well-resourced office and studio space but also to give the building more flexibility, with areas for performances, workshops, meetings and training.

A spokesman said: "These plans are part of an intended move towards placing ourselves as a resource for the communities and people we work with and for.

"The development of the courthouse will hopefully enable us to play a more strategic role in the development of the arts in North Yorkshire.

"We foresee being able to serve our 'community' by bringing together facilities, expertise, contacts, information, advice and resources under one roof."

The spokesman added: "It is anticipated that our role as advocate will develop alongside our existing aims of bringing challenging and participatory arts projects to rural communities and the continuing On Tour show programme."

As part of the new development Rural Arts also plans to set up a new web site, to include an artist's database giving people access to information which will allow them to initiate their own arts projects.

The organisation is now appealing for any artists, arts consultants or trainers interested in working in a community context, and who would like to be included, to contact them.

They should supply a photo of themselves, a short synopsis of what they do, the techniques they are proficient in and details of any projects they have been involved in.

Information should be sent by e-mail to inf