BUILDING work at the John Peel Centre is on schedule but the venture still needs �80,000 if it is to meet the project’s original plan.

The final stage of the creative art centre’s �1.3million refurbishment project is under way.

So far, �20,000 has been raised for the Stowmarket venue and its chairman, Andrew Stringer, said the fundraising so far has been “positive.”

The theft of a toilet and four fire extinguishers last month has not deflected the Church Walk project.

“All the steel work is now inside and it’s all very exciting. It’s all taking shape and the toilet theft has not affected our timetable,” said Mr Stringer.

“Currently, there’s lots of people with hammers and drills. Lots of people want to use the centre at the moment so it is a very busy place.”

The cafe, bar and mezzanine floor have all been installed.

Work is being carried out on the building’s electrical and lighting systems. In the coming weeks a glass viewing box for visitors and a reception should be completed.

Mr Stringer said he would be holding a meeting with a potential funding partner for the centre.

“It is an issue – the money is absolutely needed by the end of the year,” said Mr Stringer.

He added that if the project did not get the full �100,000 there would be parts of the centre which would not be completed.

People can pledge money by sponsoring pieces of the centre’s furniture and features via the project’s website.

A benefit concert featuring two of John Peel’s favourite bands, The Fall and The Undertones, was announced last month.

The veteran groups will be playing at a launch event for the John Peel Festival of New Music in October at Norwich’s Epic Studios.

To help with the fundraising, visit www.johnpeelcentreforcreativearts.co.uk