A York arts group is hoping to transform unused space in an historic city centre building into a thriving venue for music and drama.

The De Grey Rooms, which are owned by the City of York Council, house a tourist office on the ground floor. The upper floors have been used for concerts and dances.

But, in recent years, the elegant building has never attracted the regular crowds that flocked to its dances during the 1940s.

Now York Arts Arena (YAA), has come up with a plan to breathe new life into the building and provide a stage for talent from the city and further afield.

Paul Sutherland, chairman of YAA, said it hopes to have its proposal before the council within a month, which will compromise a business plan and a four-month programme of events.

"There's a huge ballroom with rooms off either side, one of which could be used to provide office space because we are in need of a base," said Paul Sutherland, chairman of YAA.

"But we are flexible and so we are prepared to use whatever space could be made available.

"It all depends how the council responds to the business proposal and we appreciate it is an ambitious project."

The organisation hopes to bring in authors and film directors to talk about their work as well as having music, drama and art exhibitions.

And he hopes the surrounding area, which encompasses the Theatre Royal and the art gallery, would lead to York having an 'art' centre.

"York Arts Arena wants to encourage, support and promote the whole spectrum of arts in the city, everything from busking to professional theatre performances," said Mr Sutherland.

"It will fulfill a variety of roles, depending on what people want.

"We sent out a card in May asking people what they thought about a multi-arts venue and so far we've had about 50 per cent back and the majority of them are in favour of such a scheme.

"Although we will be limited in the confines of the building, we see this project as an important first step towards the comprehensive arts venue which the citizens of York deserve."

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