The Generator – an ambitious restoration project in Loughborough that’s bringing a new arts and culture centre to the town – has taken another significant step forward by appointing its CEO. Loughborough native Jess Vollar Bell is taking on the role, the first person to hold the post.
Jess will join the team of volunteers at The Generator CIC who have been working hard for several years to restore this sizeable 1930s building, now divided into the fully restored OAC (with the coffee shop Public and Plants) by its joint venture partner Our Neighbourhood and the partly-restored Generator Hall.
This building is well known in the town, with a reputation already established for innovation and creativity through its past incarnations, first as a technical college and then as an art college within Loughborough University.
The Generator is scheduled to open in Autumn 2025, creating a multi-purpose arts and cultural centre. The venue will host visual art exhibitions, music performances, workshops, and community events in its versatile spaces, including a main hall for up to 250 people and smaller studio areas.
While the focus remains on artistic activities, the venue will also cater to private hires, offering a space for weddings, conferences, and other events.
Jess attended Rawlins Academy in Quorn (Leicestershire) before pursuing training in acting at the Guildford School of Acting. After an early career as a professional actor, Jess discovered a passion for facilitating arts opportunities for others, leading her to build an impressive resume in venue management within the arts sector. Jess’s experience spans both local and metropolitan arts whilst being based in London for the past decade.
Jess spoke about her plans for the new cultural centre: “I am driven by a deep commitment to fostering vibrant cultural experiences that are accessible and available to all. With a strong foundation in the industry’s creative and operational sides, I intend to bring a unique blend of artistic vision and practical expertise to The Generator.
“With my Midlands background, I cannot wait to deliver a wealth of arts and culture experiences to this community; my community.”
Volunteer director at The Generator CIC, David Pagett-Wright, spoke on behalf of the existing team in welcoming Jess onboard: “Jess’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping The Generator’s future, and we are excited to see the meaningful impact she will make in the Loughborough arts and cultural community as well as the wider Midlands’ scene. Welcome home, Jess!”
Audiovisual artist and volunteer director at the Generator, Andy Harper, added: “Our vision is to create a vibrant destination where artists, organisations, and communities come together to experience, share, and learn through performances, exhibitions, talks, and workshops.
“We’ll collaborate with local and regional partners to enrich this area’s cultural landscape. Our focus is on delivering high-quality, accessible cultural experiences while championing sustainability and nurturing creative connections across our community.”
