Lincoln Drill Hall, which stages a host of events from book swaps to comedy nights, has gained its independence. A new trust has been formed to run one of Lincoln’s most important cultural venues.

Since its refurbishment in 2004 City of Lincoln Council has managed the venue. Management will be taken over by the Lincoln Arts Trust Ltd as of 1st October 2010.

With only one city councillor on the trust’s board the Drill Hall will have more autonomy in future, and it will also see its grant from the council increased to £250,000 per year.

A business plan has been developed by the council and the trust to ensure that the Drill Hall can remain financially sound while achieving its charitable, artistic and social objectives.

Simon Hollingworth, who has been the Manager of the Drill Hall since it reopened in 2004, said: “This is very exciting news, not just for the staff and the new trustees but for the people of Lincoln too. A thriving independent arts venue is a vital part of the cultural well-being of any town or city and we are therefore delighted that the City of Lincoln Council has taken this exciting and brave step forward.

“We are confident that this will be the beginning of a thrilling new chapter in the Drill Hall’s history and we will do our very best to offer the people of Lincoln and beyond some amazing cultural opportunities.

“We urge anyone who’s not yet given us a try to come through our doors and find out what it’s all about!’

Events being run at Lincoln Drill Hall can be found on the LoveLincoln.co.uk website so keep checking back to see what’s on…