Great progress is being made at the moment towards the twin goals of achieving the building which is the focus of the project and also the programme of events and exhibitions which are to flourish in and around the Centre.

   Our application for planning permission has been granted by Harrogate Borough Council.  Archaeologists are currently excavating the area to be affected by the future building works, and our Artist in Residence is making a record of everything that happens to the site.  The application to be made to the Heritage Lottery Foundation for second stage funding is nearing completion.

  A number of people have met to discuss their interest in becoming volunteer Heritage Wardens for the Centre, and what this might entail.  An oral history group is getting to grips with plans for a programme of interviewing local people and preserving and/or exhibiting material which comes from their memories and wisdom.  The Washburn Valley Talks, a series of eight talks about the Valley held at the Robinson Library, Timble were very well supported.  Many other ideas for heritage related events and networks are being investigated and progressed.