In our current exhibition, Intra Arts is delighted to showcase many of the excellent projects delivered for the High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) over the last four years. The scheme has really helped to boost a sense of community in the street, and we’re proud to be working with the dedicated, proactive and talented group of local people driving the legacy of this programme.

In 2020 Medway Council secured £1.6 million of government funding to revitalise the Old High Street Intra area (between Sun Pier and Star Hill), and support a new cultural programme of activity here.

As one of 67 areas across England to become a HSHAZ, the street received funding from Historic England supporting work to restore historic buildings, bring empty spaces back into use, create a framework for development of the area, and hold consultations with the public on the future of the street.

A Cultural Consortium was formed with local volunteer residents, business people, organisations and creatives, and some of the HSHAZ funding was managed by this group to engage local communities through art and cultural projects. There were festivals, cultural events, exhibitions, greening schemes, local history films and walks, performances and many creative activities.

The HSHAZ programme ended here in March 2024, but the Cultural Consortium is transitioning into a charity called Intra Community Trust, with the aim to continue fundraising for and developing events and projects that promote public engagement with cultural, creative and heritage in our area.