Community hub The Factory Space opening in Boscombe

Martin Jones, from Boscombe, envisioned a venue with a "wide variety of artistic, creative and holistic offerings".

The Factory Space, located in the old vintage emporium on Old Christchurch Road, is due to open in October 2024.

Martin, 47, works in hospitality and runs a drag group called Tenor Ladies at Large. Once the new venue opens, the drag group will relocate to it.

Martin Jones (Image: Martin Jones)

He said: "We have plans to install a dog-friendly café, a bar and lounge, and a theatre/event space in the main part of the building."

The concept has already fostered momentum from nearby residents, who have asked to use the space for yoga classes, children's dance schools, gong baths, fundraisers, and pantomimes and more.

Martin said The Factory Space will run a monthly market, which will alternate themes and offer everything from crafts and baby clothes to holistic fairs.

He said: "Quite honestly, people have stepped forward and are asking to put on events. The nice thing about the venue is that it's very accessible and inclusive.

"We are looking at anything creative that we can run to do good for the community around us."

Martin's husband, Andrew, will be running a vintage café called "And-he-bakes" coffee and cakes.

The café will be open in the daytime as well as in the evening and will be dog friendly. There will be freshly baked cakes and treats to cater for diverse dietary needs.

Martin said: "We are creating a venue that is malleable and can suit everyone's needs.

"We have lived in the area for 14 years now and it is such a huge space which is crying out for something to do."

He added: "We want to create a local environment that is safe & accessible by foot, bus or train.

"We have a large community with lots of houses and flats in the area, so there is a big demand for something like this."

For more information and updates, visit The Factory Space's Facebook page or email the factory spacebournemouth@gmail.com.