Council set to appoint operator for new Bermondsey multi-arts centre

A council is set to appoint the operator of a new multi-arts centre in Bermondsey next week.

Southwark council has recommended Bermondsey 223 to run the new venue in The Blue, Bermondsey.

The Blue, a historic market place, has offered a space for traders, shops and volunteer groups to come together for years.

The new multi-arts site is the latest move in the recent community-led renovation of the market area. 

The venue will deliver a photography-based arts space, hosting free exhibitions, community events and screenings.

There will also be affordable studios for emerging photographers as well as studio hire for the photographic industry.

Cllr John Batteson, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Jobs and Business, said: “I’m really excited by the recommended appointment of Bermondsey 223 to develop and operate this new site. 

“This is a great opportunity to offer the area a creative and cultural hub and I know they understand the importance that this will have in the local community.”

The building will undergo works to bring it up to standard as a publicly accessible space.  

Work is expected to start at the end of the year and it is hoped the new multi-arts space will be open in Spring 2026.

The recommendation to appoint Bermondsey 223 is made in a report to Southwark Council’s Cabinet, which will make a final decision when it meets on March 11.

Pictured top: The venue in The Blue which will deliver a photography-based arts space, hosting free exhibitions, community events and screenings (Picture: Southwark council)