Kids’ Own wished to explore the need, potential, and feasibility of a dedicated children’s cultural centre for the Northwest region of Ireland, a key priority of the Sligo Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) 2016-2021). This Feasibility Study considered the potential for the development of such a dedicated children’s cultural centre in Sligo.
Project details
- Extensive research into the provision of children’s cultural centres in Ireland and internationally, within the EU and beyond
- Considering the role of a cultural centre within children’s and cultural policy, both nationally and internationally
- Consultation with those providing cultural programming, including The Ark, Young at Heart, Baboró, Cultural Rucksack (Norway), Children’s Cultural Centre – Kemi (Finland), The Children’s Cultural House (Copenhagen, Denmark), Kids’ Own Australia, Art Play (Melbourne, Australia), The Children’s Art Centre (Poznan, Poland), Children’s Art Centre (Berlin, Germany), Hawkswell, The Model, Michael Coleman Music Centre, The Docks Arts Centre, King House and the Museum of Country Life
- Local direct interviews and workshops with Primary Schools, Sligo Education Centre, Family Resource Centres, Childcare Providers, Social Inclusion Groups, cultural venues and providers, parents and children
- Recommendations for the content of a new Children’s Cultural Centre, including physical space and services
- Research into the potential catchment area, including population size, ages and potential target market
- Identify a suitable model for the ownership and management of the facility, including governance, staffing and management
- Prepare detailed financial projections, based upon the catchment area, target market, potential sources of income and potential operating costs
- Provide recommendations regarding the viability and sustainability of various models of a Children’s Cultural Centre in Sligo.
