Newbury's Corn Exchange quite literally 'goes green'
Iconic building illuminated in green light to raise awareness of fundraising campaign
IF you have passed Newbury’s Corn Exchange theatre this week you may have noticed it looking a little different from usual.
The historic landmark venue has been illuminated in green light every evening to raise awareness of its latest fundraising initiative – Give to Go Green appeal.
During October, the Corn Exchange is asking visitors and local supporters to make a donation of £5 to the appeal.
This will enable them to install solar panels, LED lights throughout the building and to upgrade the public washrooms, including installation of water-efficient toilets and time-flow pillar taps.
The Corn Exchange has recently been awarded £165,000 from Arts Council England to carry out essential building maintenance and to take significant steps in becoming a ‘greener’ organisation.
Having already secured 97 per cent of the funds needed to complete the project, the theatre now needs the support of locals to help them to reach the final fundraising target of £5,000.
Grant Brisland, co-director of the Corn Exchange, said: “With the help of our loyal supporters we will be able to complete these major improvements to our beautiful building.
“Not only will they allow us to reduce our carbon footprint, as we aim to become more environmentally friendly, but they’ll also help reduce our overheads.
“The solar panels themselves will generate more than £180,000 for the Corn Exchange Trust over the next 20 years meaning your donation will not just give us a greener future but a more financially-resilient one.”
To donate to the Give to Go Green Appeal, visit www.cornexchange.com/donate, text CORN15 £5 to 70070 (£5 is a suggested donation), or call the box office on 0845 5218 218.