'People have embraced Culture House as their own' - 80,000 visit in first month of new Sunderland venue
Close to 80,000 have visited, including almost 4,000 new library members, in the first month of Sunderland’s new venue.
“What makes me most proud is the way people have embraced Culture House as their own,” says the director of Culture House as the venue marks its first month in the city.
The multipurpose addition, which incorporates the city’s main library, gallery space, studios, play spaces, Blacks Corner and a shop, opened its doors on September 12 after much anticipation.
Since then, 79,685 have visited in the first month, with more than 3,800 new library members registered, including more than 1,000 children.
The venue has even attracted regional and national attention, appearing on BBC’s The One Show and in several national newspapers.
Leanne Littlewood, Culture House Director and Head of Cultural Services at Sunderland City Council, said: "The response from the public has exceeded all expectations.
“To welcome almost 80,000 visitors in our first month is simply incredible, but what makes me most proud is the way people have embraced Culture House as their own."
In its opening four weeks, the venue has also engaged 1,800 people through its learning and engagement programme; welcomed 17 schools across six Schools Festival Days; delivered 30 commercial hires; hosted a two-day Creative Smart City Symposium and held an immersive VR takeover with Southpaw Company.
Visitors also got to enjoy Our Home In Space – the venue’s first major exhibition in partnership with the Barbican in London, leading the way for a year-wide programme of activities.
Future highlights include SPACEWALKERS a VR experience from Emmy award winning studios Felix and Paul. The experience will allow visitors to explore the wonders space in a unique immersive experience. Tickets are free but must be booked in advance.
Cllr Ciera Hudspith, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Tourism and Heritage at Sunderland City Council, said: "The response to Culture House has been incredible. Having so many people come through the doors in just a few weeks shows how much people value spaces like this.
"It's fantastic to see so many residents, families, schools and community groups already making Culture House part of their lives.
“This is a wonderful start, and I'm excited to see the impact it continues to have on our city and our communities."
*Culture House, Keel Square, is open every day from 10am to 6pm. As well as the programmed activities, people can pop in any day of the week and enjoy the range of things the venue has to offer.