A new €3m visual arts centre has been officially opened in Carlow.

Culture Minister Martin Cullen welcomed the completion of the scheme at Carlow College.

The George Bernard Shaw Theatre redevelopment also formed part of the overall investment project.

The new arts venue comprises a main link gallery that acts as a central hub, off which other art gallery spaces extend and a 353-seat performing arts theatre suitable for music, dance and drama in addition to film screenings, literary readings and other events.

The theatre will also be the home venue for a number of Carlow based arts groups who will use it for workshops, rehearsals and presentation of work.

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The Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism contributed a grant of €3.17m towards the scheme under its ACCESS capital funding scheme.

Minister Cullen said: "This centre is a wonderful addition to the country’s cultural infrastructure. This new building with its magnificent main theatre and four principal gallery spaces provides new high quality facilities for both artists and public alike.

"What has been achieved here in the grounds of Saint Patrick's College will provide a cultural focus not just for Carlow, but also for the surrounding hinterland and for the country.

"I congratulate Carlow College, who generously donated the site, the Carlow County and Town Councils, the Carlow arts community and the people of Carlow on their achievement."

He added: "The arts do not just reward us aesthetically. There is a real incentive of economic return attached to them too.

"New research has shown that the cultural and creative sector is one of the most dynamic areas of our economy, with a total economic impact last year of €11.8bn."

(PR/BMcc)