ONE of Wales' leading centre for the applied arts, based in Denbighshire, is preparing to open its doors to the public after lockdown restrictions on museums and galleries was lifted.

Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, which operates Ruthin Craft Centre says it is 'delighted' to confirm that the public can start visiting as of August 12.

The Centre has secured the ‘We're Good To Go' industry standard supporting mark, meaning it can demonstrate that it is adhering to the respective Government and public health guidance, have carried out a COVID-19 risk assessment and checked that the have the right processes in place.

The Centre’s galleries and retail spaces will open Wednesdays – Saturdays, 11am – 4pm for the foreseeable future. Bespoke signage themed to the craft centre relating to social distancing, hand sanitizing and directional markings has been developed and will be put in place prior to re-opening. There will be one designated entrance to the craft centre to control access. This will be from the main car park.

Entrance to the gallery will be by pre - booking only. This will be limited to 20 visitors per hour. Visitors will be able to book via the Eventbrite app / booking system currently used across the industry. This is free of charge and will allow Denbighshire Leisure Ltd to track and trace all visitors and control the number of visitors in the gallery at any one time.

Jamie Groves, Managing Director of Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, said: “We are extremely pleased to be re-opening the craft centre to the public from Wednesday 12th August and although this will be with a reduced capacity, we feel it will be warmly welcomed. The exhibition, re-opening and new operational times will be promoted on social media (3,500 followers) as well as a mail chimp / electronic notification sent out to the craft centre’s 1400 subscribers. There will also be a virtual gallery tour available on – line and a number short films with the artist (Eleri Mills) in both Welsh and English.

Councillor Bobby Feeley, Cabinet Lead Member for Health and Well-being and Chair of Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, said: “During the lockdown period, staff have been busy maintaining the facilities, as well as continuing to provide digital resources online. The external areas of the Centre have all been professionally cleaned and sharpened up ahead of opening.

“We are gearing up for the re-opening and are delighted to celebrate this important occasion with a brand new exhibition called Egni by Eleri Mills, one of Wales’ most successful textile artists.

“We would like to thank regular users and supporters of Ruthin Craft Centre for their on-going support. The Craft Centre is an iconic facility of national importance and we cannot wait to re-open and allow people access, whilst adhering to safety guidelines”.

Café R will remain closed for the time being whilst work is undertaken to the kitchen and the intention is also to improve the outdoor eating offer. It is unlikely Café R will open before the end of September. The Education, Engagement and hands-on activity studios will also remain closed.