Manx Lottery funding transforms venues

New lift for theatre, church gains a hub

Grants from the Manx Lottery Trust have transformed two contrasting venues in the Island, improving facilities for the public.

The Trust, which distributes money from the Big Lottery Fund, awarded £25,000 towards a lift providing disabled access at King's Court Theatre in Castletown. Friends of King William's College contributed £15,000. 

The venue, which opened in 2015, hosts productions, concerts, live streaming events and corporate presentations. 

Chair of Friends of KWC Sue Nicholson said: "Not only will it be a great asset to King's Court, but the lift will provide valuable access to the Barrovian Hall, enabling current and past parents, friends and alumni to attend events which otherwise would have been inaccessible to them."

In the west of the Island, a new community hub has been created in Dalby church thanks to a Manx Lottery Trust grant.

Major renovations have created a 'multi-purpose bright open space' for workshops, exhibitions, games and social events.

The grant is also helping fund new plumbing, a disabled toilet, flooring, wood burning stove, kitchenette, electric heaters and rewiring of the basement.

An integral shop selling local produce will be included, and the hub may in future be used for TT Homestay, with profits helping fund the upkeep of the building.