I HAVE heard recently about plans by Ealing Arts and Leisure to turn parts of Ealing's Town Hall into an arts centre.

This seems just what the area needs, since arts provision in the borough is noticeably lacking.

But now, encouragingly, I gather the council has supported the project with funding for a professional business plan.

An arts centre for the borough would hopefully include studios for music, dance and art, rehearsal or performance spaces and a cafe.

These rooms would then be available for commercial hire at sensible rates, producing revenue and providing the community with spaces for a range of artistic activities.

Courses could be set up as diverse as street dance, photography and pottery. The project would be a wonderful way of drawing the community together, providing real opportunities for children, teens, adults and professionals alike.

The centre would stimulate social interaction and foster creativity, which increases the wellbeing of the community, reducing the burden on police, health and welfare services.

A link between professional artists and the community could really benefit aspiring youngsters and also those who simply enjoy the arts as a hobby.

For so many years, the town hall has been a drain on resources and woefully under-used. This project would be an immensely positive move for the area and an invaluable resource for Ealing's residents. An arts centre at the heart of the borough would bring huge benefits to the economic and social communities and soon create a real sense of local pride.

I have now signed the Ealing arts and leisure supporters list. Have you?

JANE QUILL

Essex Road Acton