A building housing over 100 artists’ studios opened in Croydon yesterday.

The first artists have already moved into ASC Art House, based on Grafton Road in central Croydon.

The new-build was purchased by Artists’ Studio Company (ASC), a charity that aims to provide stable and affordable workshop space to artists and creative businesses.

Peter Flack, ASC CEO, said: “Artists and creatives can no longer afford to live and work in London.

“Our city is envied by the rest of the world for its creative output and culture, but we have reached a tipping point.

“My charity has provided affordable workspace to thousands of artists and creatives for over 25 years. We have always operated in low rent buildings but now these properties have gone.

“To continue our work, we need to acquire permanent sites at below market value. ASC Art House within Grafton Quarter is exactly what is needed both in Croydon and across the capital.

“With the support of LB Croydon and the developer, Urban Wise, my organisation has been able to purchase ASC Art House below its market value enabling us to support local creative people permanently.”

The site contains 104 purpose-built studios for fine artists and creative businesses, available for rent at low prices.

The building also contains a large exhibition space for tenants to display their work.

Part of a new mixed-use development named ‘Grafton Quarter’, ASC Art House is a 15-minute walk from West Croydon station.

Tenants will take up occupation alongside the residents in the 88 apartments across the development’s five buildings.

For more information visit: http://www.ascstudios.co.uk