New Brewery Arts in Cirencester has been saved from imminent closure, thanks to the generosity of the local community.
The arts centre shared in September 2025 that it was at risk of closure within six months due to funding cuts, asking the community to 'use us or lose us'.
It is now sharing its 'gratitude, relief and a renewed sense of purpose' after a 'wave of generosity from Cirencester and far beyond' has helped keep the doors open.
Alongside an increase in workshop and course bookings, the charity received £27,000 in donations from the public – including an anonymous donation matching the deficit forecast in summer 2025 – meaning it can stay open for at least another year.
It has also welcomed eight new patrons and secured two grants for its New Brewery Hearts bursary placements in 2026.
CEO, Beth Alden, said: 'There were moments over the past six months when it genuinely felt as though we might lose everything we have built over nearly five decades. Being so honest about that was frightening, but it was also necessary.
'The response has been overwhelming. That anonymous gift, arriving when it did, felt like a Christmas gift. But just as powerful has been the sheer number of people who chose to act, who booked a course, brought a friend, made a donation, or told us they couldn’t imagine Cirencester without New Brewery Arts.
'This has been about far more than money. It has reminded us why we exist.'
The charity has also taken steps to build long-term resilience, opening a new studio which has been rented out to a maker; reducing costs with new IT and operational measures; and securing a Rural England Prosperity Fund grant through Cotswold District Council to replace its heating system and boiler.
Economic development lead at Cotswold District Council, Paul James, said: 'This project will reduce energy use, cut carbon emissions and deliver long‑term savings.
'New Brewery Arts is a vital part of Cirencester’s cultural life and the public response to their appeal shows just how much it is valued. We look forward to continuing our partnership in the months and years ahead.'
It is now calling for continued community support to secure its long-term future and help it reach its 50th anniversary in 2028.
Beth added: 'What this experience has shown us is how deeply New Brewery Arts is woven into people’s lives. But it has also shown how fragile organisations like ours can be.
'The message hasn’t changed: please keep using us. Keep coming through the doors, keep learning, keep making, keep supporting us in whatever way you can — whether that’s booking a workshop, visiting the shop, donating anonymously or even remembering us in your will.
'Because if people stop using us, there is still a very real risk of losing us. We are determined, but the tools are in your hands.'
It is also inviting people to its Open Studio Day in April to see behind the scenes and share the early stages of its 50th anniversary plans.
