It will also assist with covering the cost of the addition of new electric furnaces in the integrated Hot Glass Studio, a facility that is often used for incentive events. This will improve environmental sustainability and significantly reduce its carbon footprint.
More than £2m has already been invested in the centre’s redevelopment following a successful fundraising campaign attracting contributions from Arts Council England, Heritage Lottery Fund and the Foyle Foundation as well as significant investment from the University of Sunderland.
James Bustard, director of National Glass Centre, said: "This investment strengthens further the commitment made by our partners at Arts Council England, Heritage Lottery Fund and Foyle Foundation. The redevelopment also reinforces the Centre’s reputation for excellence and enables us to play a major role in the growing cultural landscape of Sunderland as well as celebrate the City’s rich glass-making heritage."
Sharon Olver, Commercial Services Manager at Unispace Sunderland, said: "The National Glass Centre is truly unique and we are delighted that this extra funding will enhance the venue as a leading cultural events space. The funding will also reduce the carbon footprint of the Centre, an issue that we at Unispace are very passionate about.
"We already have a number of bookings confirmed for the newly developed space and look forward to continuing to host national and international events at what will be a cultural venue of international standing."
National Glass Centre’s opening weekend will take place from 29 to 30 June 2013, with a weekend of special events and opening of three exhibitions of national significance.
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