The Blue has for many years been a hub for market traders, shops and volunteer groups to come together and the area has recently seen significant investment with a dynamic community-led renovation of the market area.
The new multi-arts site will further enrich the heritage of The Blue and provide a cultural landmark for the local community.
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 Tuesday 11 March.
Bermondsey 223 will deliver a photography-based arts offer that will include collaboration with other art forms, host free exhibitions, community events and screenings, and will provide affordable studios for emerging photographers as well as studio hire for the photographic industry.
The new multi-arts space will be a hub of activity for the community, emerging artists and professionals alike. It will provide a vibrant feel to the centre and the whole high-street and marketplace.
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 multi-arts centre will encourage creative arts and be an inclusive space for everyone in the community, adding social value as well as tangible opportunities for people from all backgrounds.”
Subject to final approval by Cabinet next week, Bermondsey 223 will let a number of studios at affordable rates to young emerging photographers, while another studio space on the ground floor will be available for hire at market rate to the photographic industry. Bermondsey 223 will also develop a programme of community events to be held in The Blue.
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.