A major local arts and heritage charity has been awarded nearly £245,000 to help secure the future of two much-loved cultural sites near Presteigne and Knighton.

The Sidney Nolan Trust, based at The Rodd just outside Presteigne, has received £244,849 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to create a long-term masterplan for its work at The Rodd and the Bleddfa Centre.

The year-long project will include community consultation, building surveys, pilot events and activities to help the Trust develop a strategic plan for the future of both locations. The aim is to protect and enhance access to the heritage, art, and landscape at the heart of the sites, while ensuring long-term sustainability.

The Rodd is a 17th-century estate that was the final home of celebrated Australian artist Sir Sidney Nolan, who founded the Trust in 1985. It houses the largest collection of his work outside Australia, as well as his preserved studio, and sits on 180 acres of farmland and woodland.

The Bleddfa Centre, near Knighton, was established in the 1970s by theatre director James Roose-Evans and is now run by the Sidney Nolan Trust following a 2023 merger. It serves as a hub for arts, creativity and community life.

Sophie Heath, Director of the Sidney Nolan Trust, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players we can take on the challenge of establishing an inclusive, thriving future for our unique places that provide access to inspiring heritage, nature and creativity in our rural region.”

The project will involve an options appraisal for future uses of the sites, training for staff and volunteers, and ecological and drainage surveys. An oral history project will also collect local stories and memories connected to both sites.

The Trust is seeking volunteers and will run events at the sites, with updates on its website and social media.