A new £1.8m arts centre has opened in Rowsley, Derbyshire, providing a new base for local artists.

The Level Centre, designed by Clash Architects to cater specifically for people with learning difficulties, will be managed by arts organisation First Movement. The centre features studio space for visual and performing arts, rented work space and a technology studio, which allows individuals to work and perform virtually with other art groups around the region. Peter Shelton, project co-ordinator, said: “Prior to opening we have been running a number of taster sessions for groups of people with differing levels of learning disability and have been encouraged to see that no matter what level of ability individuals have, they are able to engage and benefit from the Level project.”

The development was part-funded by the East Midlands Development Agency (emda), as part of its 2006 Regional Economic Strategy, designed to develop the region's cultural offerings by 2020. Abby Johnson Brennan, deputy chief executive of emda, said: "Innovation and the arts play a crucial role in the economic development of the East Midlands so bringing the first facility for learning disabled artists to the UK is a fantastic accolade for our region. The Level Centre is a modern, high-tech facility that will make a real difference to the lives of those who use it.

"Over the past five years emda has invested over £20million in developing the capital infrastructure for the arts to maximise the economic potential of this sector. Our investment in venues like The Level Centre means that the East Midlands will continue to benefit from new job and tourism opportunities that are created as a result.”