Ebbw Vale Institute: The Cultural Centre in Ebbw Vale

EVI

Overview

The regeneration of Ebbw Vale Institute (EVI) was born out of a need to set up a new space for cultural and creativity development. It is a Grade II listed building and the oldest institute in Wales dating back to 1849, but for many years it was abandoned and fell into a state of disrepair. In addition, the region in which EVI is based required investment and regeneration in order to rejuvenate the area.

Our Approach

It is EVI’s goal to bring cultural and community activities and services to the Ebbw Vale community, and help to activate the business realm of Blaenau Gwent. With this investment in upgrading EVI with state of the art facilities, ProMo-Cymru recognises the importance of preserving the region’s history.

Outcome

EVI is open to everyone in the community. This building serves as a renewed focus for the area, providing a programme of creative activities. Facilities include a cafe offering snacks and meals with free wifi access, a venue with a licensed bar for events, concerts, wedding receptions and parties, conference facilities, state-of-the-art recording facilities and rehearsal rooms, and dance studios.

“This venue is not seen like school or college and gives young people the feeling of no pressure whilst they learn and engage without realising. The Building and its staff do very well at this because of their non-judgmental and friendly environment – the building holds no stigma like some education institutes do.”

BGCBC Youth Services Editorial Group.