LOCAL artists will soon have a new showcase for their work after plans for an art gallery in the centre of York were given the go-ahead.

The owners of the Old Schoolhouse in Peasholme Green are hoping to make the building one of Yorkshire’s artistic hubs, following a decision by planners to allow the transformation of the vacant site.

The contemporary gallery, studio and shop – which will be known as the New School House Gallery – is earmarked to open at the start of next month and its first exhibition, a ceramics display entitled Vessel, is already lined up.

Freelance writer and photographer Robert Teed, who has embarked on the venture with his partner, Paula Jackson, now hopes the business will be a show of faith in the York arts scene as it launches in the eye of the recession, after City of York Council granted permission for the building’s change of use.

“We’re very pleased with the council’s decision and we hope the gallery will be a major showing space which will attract artists from across the country,” said Mr Teed, 43.

“It will also be great for local artists who may be at the beginning of their careers. York does need a commercial gallery where contemporary art, which is exciting and in tune with trends, can be shown.

“We are hoping to open on December 1 and it is now a case of having all hands on deck, building plinths and display counters, as well as getting the word out about the gallery and letting people know what we are doing.”

Mr Teed said he is already in discussions with the York Museums Trust about linking the New School House into its exhibition programmes, as well as talking to York St John University about the possibility of teaming up on cultural events and allowing art students a window for their work.

“It’s also our intention that the gallery will rapidly get onto the radar of national collectors, who in turn will bring new business to the city,” he said. “And we believe this will help complement the regeneration of the Peasholme Green area which has already taken place. Over time, we hope it will gain a standing as a venue of national importance.”