AN alleyway in Sidmouth could be turned into an art gallery with a difference if early proposals become a reality.

An artistic vision group with strong links to the town wants to turn Church Lane, which runs adjacent to Blackmore Gardens, into a tourist attraction boasting the work of photographers, painters and others.

The driving forces behind the proposal say hundreds of pieces of work could potentially adorn the 70ft long alley’s 12ft high brick wall during the summer months.

Describing the space as “incredibly underused”, they suggest the alley would have to be temporarily “covered” to protect work from the elements – and want to hear what townsfolk think about the idea.

A spokesman for the artistic vision group, which is yet to be named, told the Herald: “The main thing is to create an atmosphere there. The type of work would be carefully picked and would have to have a local interest.

“We need to get a reaction from locals and an idea of whether they would support it. I want feedback as to whether it gets a good feeling or a bad feeling.

“This is something I hope will bring visitors to Sidmouth. I’m trying to give the town a different aspect.”

The spokesman added that the venture would be run as a business, and amateur and semi-professionals’ work would feature – with pieces being available for purchase.

“This could be for anyone that has a standard – people that would never dream of putting on an exhibition but who have work that is good enough to show off and be proud of.”

He added that the content of work would need to be relevant to an area stretching from Exmouth to Lyme Regis – and especially Sidmouth and its surrounding villages.

What do you think of the idea? Write a letter to the Herald at the usual address – or email stefan.gordon@archant.co.uk with your views.