Hendon: The Tally Ho project should be mentioned in the same breath as Tate Modern and the Albert Docks, according to Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell.

She praised the scheme as a "very good example of a public-private partnership" which would be at the forefront of Britain's urban revival.

Speaking after appearing at the project's official launch on Thursday last week, she said: "The arts can easily co-exist with private business and, if both sides gain, no-one is the loser."

Ms Jowell dismissed concerns of Conservatives and Green Party members over the size of the 14-storey tower and its future financing. Tories claim it will require an annual council subsidy of at least £300,000, the council says the figure is closer to £230,000.

"The site is at a busy intersection so no doubt all those planning issues were taken into account when planning permission was given," she said. "Running costs are also an issue but I'm happy to support a project like this which seems to be doing its level best to connect with the wider community.

"Projects with a wide base find it easier to build loyalty and generate income."

The Culture Secretary also denied artsdepot was over-ambitious for a local authority.

"Of course, councils must do the basics well and Barnet's reputation for the basics is pretty good but arts centres can revive neighbourhoods, generate community involvement, help education in schools and beyond," she said.

"All the evidence is that children who get involved in the arts and sport do better at school they learn more, are less likely to get into trouble and have more social confidence.

"And good art is an end in itself too, each of us is the poorer if we can't find time for culture, whether that's theatre, music, galleries, literature, dance or whatever."

Ms Jowell said the arts centre was part of Britain's culture-led urban renewal, drawing comparisons with Tate Modern on the South Bank and the Albert Docks in Liverpool.

She added: "I have great hopes of the artsdepot. It is offering a wide range of opportunities for everyone and reflecting the cultural mix of the area in a very inclusive way."

December 13, 2001 15:30