AN ARTS centre in Highgate has been saved from the brink of ruin, after gaining a last-minute reprieve. The Arts Council decided yesterday (Wednesday) not to withdraw �132,000 from Jacksons Lane – which means the centre will be able to continue its outrea

AN ARTS centre in Highgate has been saved from the brink of ruin, after gaining a last-minute reprieve.

The Arts Council decided yesterday (Wednesday) not to withdraw �132,000 from Jacksons Lane - which means the centre will be able to continue its outreach work and will not be forced to become a purely commercial operation.

The decision goes against recommendations made by the Arts Council's own officers and is likely to have been influenced by Haringey Council's promise to increase its annual support for the centre to �110,000, plus subsidised rent worth more than �60,000 a year and support for older people's activities.

Jacksons Lane boss Kate Sarley said: "This is great news. We couldn't have done this without the support of Haringey Council, as well as local people. I have been overwhelmed by the amount of support and well wishes we have received from residents.

"I'm sure that it was this partnership and commitment to a fruitful relationship between Jacksons Lane and Haringey which gave the Arts Council the confidence to review their decision, and all Haringey residents can be proud of that.

"We are now looking forward to working with Haringey and the Arts Council to develop the centre over the coming period. I hope that local people will continue to support us and come to see just how much we have to offer."

Highgate Liberal Democrat councillor Rachel Allison said: "This is brilliant news, and we want to thank the hundreds of people who took the time to write in support of Jacksons Lane. Once again, this has made all the difference.