Plans have already been drawn for the improvements at Wiltshire Music Centre, despite funding only being awarded last week.

Arts Council England agreed to give the centre a £371,065 grant for improvements and upgrades.

Clare Jack, executive producer of Wiltshire Music Centre, said: “We are absolutely thrilled, because we have wanted to do improvements for about eight years.

“We have prepared to start right away and have plans and drawings of what things will look like when it’s finished. We will stagger the work, to create limited disruption and avoid affecting the concerts.”

The centre will invest in a new sound system in the auditorium, to improve the quality of sound for a range of music including folk, jazz and classical.

The auditorium will also have new recording and transmitting equipment.

Music and concerts will be streamed, to transmit workshops and masterclasses for education projects.

She said: “We want to improve the quality of the experience for the audience and put the building on its pedestal.”

The foyer facilities will be upgraded, with improved lighting, carpets and furniture to create a comfortable place to eat, drink and relax before and after concerts.

Clare Jack added: “We want to light the building up appropriately and will invest in better external lighting and signs.

“This fund is about being able to finish the building.

“The centre is involved with concerts, community and school projects. Office space will be expanded to accommodate staff and allow these projects to grow.

“We want to reach further into the community. The centre is growing and we need staff and people here to do the work.

“The community is incredibly supportive of the Wiltshire Music Centre. It is well loved by its audiences and I am sure it will be great for them to see the success.

“This accolade from the Arts Council shows we have their stamp of approval and we can begin to improve the audiences we reach and the quality of their experience.”