PLANS to open an arts centre in Maidstone will be discussed next month as the future of the Corn Exchange comes under scrutiny.

A new report on the Hazlitt Theatre and the Exchange states that both are a prime asset to cultural life in the county town.

But it also recognises the need for a review of the venues and supports the plan to carry out a feasibility study into turning them into a comprehensive arts centre.

The long term aim for the town is to open a brand new arts centre, possibly on the riverfront, and retain the Hazlitt and the Exchange for alternative arts programmes. But in the meantime, the two venues could be upgraded to provide the extra facilities needed in the town.

The move, estimated to cost about £100,000, would provide three extra rooms at the complex, which could be used by arts groups for anything from performance areas to dressing rooms. The Hazlitt Theatre would be retained and responsible for producing a programme of popular entertainment including both amateur and professional theatre, popular music shows and pantomimes. The Exchange Room would provide a venue for alternative arts.

A new reception area would be developed to give general advice on the arts in the Corn Exchange and Maidstone as a whole.

Cllr John Williams (Lib Dem) portfolio holder for culture and leisure, will meet Maidstone council's scrutiny committee next week to discuss the issues in the report.

If he agrees, a feasibility study costing about £15,000 will be commissioned into the proposal.