Harnessing Community and Creativity: The Future Potential of The Amulet in Shepton Mallet

I was delighted to attend the inaugural business and arts networking event at the Amulet this morning, organised by the dedicated group working to revitalise the building and ensure its future. It was a great opportunity to connect and support their inspiring efforts. Here is what I said:

I stand here today with a passion rooted in my personal experiences, my professional life, and my public service as a Councillor, all of which point to the transformative power of the Amulet for Shepton Mallet.

I grew up in and around this town, coming here to enjoy live music, dance, and share community moments as a teenager.

Shepton Mallet is more than just a place—it’s a community with incredible potential. That potential isn’t just waiting to be unlocked; it is being actively unlocked by a dedicated community eager to drive positive change.

This place inspired me to bring top practitioners in film, TV, and animation to our town, inspiring local talent and opening pathways into the creative industry.

This experience showed me firsthand how a space dedicated to culture and creativity can ignite passion, nurture talent, and truly build a sense of community.

We ran this showcase to connect our local talent with established creative industries right here—the Amulet—in Shepton Mallet.

One area of my work previously has involved funding programs across the South West.

I’ve seen how the lack of a cultural heart here hampers opportunities. We need a physical space—a hub—that can inspire ideas, support local initiatives, and act as a catalyst for growth. This attracts investment.

Now, as a councillor, I see how communities are eager to drive their own destiny. Councils are there to help, not just to hand out support, but to empower. I’ve witnessed the renewal of towns like Frome and Bedminster, where community-led regeneration sparks hope, pride, and economic vitality.

The story of Alhampton Pub—a small village venue taken over and revitalised by locals who raised the funds—is a shining example of community investment / ownership leading to success. It’s won awards, it’s sustainable, and it enriches the lives of those who live there.

What is incredible about the Amulet project, and what excites me, is not just the ambition, but the people behind driving this ambition. The team leading this vision are incredibly collaborative and highly skilled. They bring a wealth of experience and a clear understanding of what is needed to make this building come alive—working together with determination, they know how to turn ideas into reality.

Other towns have town halls, cinemas, theatres, and venue spaces. Now it’s Shepton’s turn to get the spotlight and not be disadvantaged anymore. The Amulet is that space.

Imagine an accessible, welcoming venue at the heart of our town—where community groups gather, local talent shines, and visitors are drawn in.

The building has a rich history, designed in the iconic brutalist style of the 1970s, with features like the moving seating platform and sprung dance floor that remain unique and adaptable.

It offers tremendous potential to host theatre, cinema, live music, festivals, and community events.

Looking forward, I see this not just as a building, but as a symbol of Shepton Mallet’s true potential—overcoming some of the barriers created by negative perceptions—showing what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision.

In conclusion, I believe in the power of community-driven projects. I believe in the Amulet’s potential to regenerate our town centre, inspire creativity, and ignite pride.