A new creative arts company has been launched in Irvine.

Eye Spy Ayrshire this week unveiled ambitious plans to set up a creative arts hub in the town.

Their proposals include setting up theatre space, plus film, dance and recording studios and rehearsal spaces which could be used by people across Ayrshire.

The key aim of the group, which is in the process of becoming a registered charity, is to provide creative arts opportunities that are free and accessible to all.

Eye Spy Ayrshire chairman Neil Smith said: “The whole idea behind the company is to improve the lives of local people through access to the creative arts.

“North Ayrshire in particular is crying out for such a project and we hope to soon find a base in Irvine.

Neil, a content editor with Ayrshire Weekly Press, added: “Our key aim remains establishing a creative arts hub for the whole of Ayrshire – giving young people, residents in some of our most deprived areas and others access to practical creative arts, whether that is through workshops and activities or the chance to take part in or watch music, dance, theatre and film.”

Ayrshire-based actor, writer and director Steven Duffy has been involved in the group’s launch.

He said: “This is an excellent opportunity to give an outlet to all the creative talent and potential in Ayrshire, from community to professional productions.

“More engagement with the arts can only be good for the community, and an chance to inspire the next generation” Eye Spy Ayrshire will use Ayrshire-based creative arts professionals to deliver some of their programmes to the community.

The group’s core directives include: *Initiating, developing and delivering high quality creative arts programmes

*Developing ideas with local like-minded people who are interested in improving their confidence as well as, enhancing their language, communication, speaking, literary and life skills... for people who are also keen to train or pursue a career in the arts

*Delivering workshop sessions, activities and events across Ayrshire

*Exploring and offering access to a variety of creative arts strands

*Offering a creative, encouraging and safe environment in which to learn

*Creating content, while exploring a wide range of themes and topics chosen by the community based on needs, thoughts and current local affairs

*To primarily target communities where there is high deprivation, unemployment and crime

*To provide access to practical creative arts experiences

*To work with people who have a real talent and the desire to improve their chances of gaining training and employment in this growing industry.