A creative crafts charity on the Isle of Dogs has confirmed it will close later this month after struggling financially.
Craft Central released a statement on its website to say that it will be shutting down on February 29.
The creative hub was formed in 1970, moving to The Forge on the Isle of Dogs in 2017 from its previous long-term venue in Clerkenwell.
Its historic studio in the Grade ll listed building is home to around 77 creatives.
Craft Central wrote in the statement: "It is with great sadness and regret that we are writing to inform you that Craft Central will cease to trade on 29 February 2024.
"You may be aware that that the organisation has experienced extreme financial difficulties since moving from our building in Clerkenwell Green in 2017, which were further compounded by the effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic, rising costs, particularly utility bills, and a decline in funding for arts and crafts in the UK."
The charity's staff and trustees have reportedly worked "incredibly hard" to prevent the creative hub from closing.
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The statement ended by saying: "We understand that this will have an impact on so many of the craftspeople we have supported over the years and the community as a whole.
"We recognise the disappointment and frustration that many of you will be experiencing and we would like to thank you all for your support these past few years, through good times as well as challenging times."
The news came as a shock to members of the local community on Facebook, who have shared their sadness at the news.
One described the news as "awful", while another said: "This place has been a boon for many good artists and crafts people. It’s a beautiful building too."
Craft Central recruited a new director, Jo McLean, who told Wharf Life in September 2022: “It’s been a turbulent few years and the charity wanted somebody who was going to come and build up the organisation again and I have the skills to do that.”
The Advertiser has contacted Jo for comment but has not received a response.
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