An appeal to raise enough cash to buy a Bramley church building and transform it into a new theatre and arts centre has been unsuccessful.
Bramley Community Arts (BCA) is a non-for-profit Community Interest Company and was formed in order to buy St Margaret’s Church Hall, in Newlay Lane, with the objective of making it available to the local community as a theatre and arts centre.
It launched a £200,000 crowdfunding appeal in October – but the group confirmed this week that their offer had been unsuccessful.
In a statement, they said: “Regrettably… we have been unsuccessful in our bid to buy St Margaret’s Church.
“St Peter’s Parochial Church Council accepted an offer from another bidder who had the funds more readily available. We understand that the church is governed by charity law and obliged to accept offers from the highest bidder.
“We have requested a refund for all of the kind donations. According to the GoFundMe website you will receive your money within seven to 10 business days.
“We would like to thank all of the contributors who donated to our appeal. We are grateful for the serious consideration from the church.”
The campaigners have saids they will continue their search for suitable premises.
The statement added: “We’ve not given up on our aspiration of having a community theatre in West Leeds and will continue to search for suitable premises.
“We are dedicated to furthering the continuation of live theatrical and arts related events for the community. If you would like to have any further information please contact us at: info bramleycommunityarts.co.uk.”