WORK has started on the Royal Opera House costume centre, the latest addition to the High House Production Park.

The centre will be used to make and store more than 20,000 costumes for ballet and opera productions.

At the moment, the companyﾒs costumes are stored in various locations across the UK, including Aberdare, in Wales and Dover.

By moving the centre closer to Covent Garden - and next to the current Bob and Tamar Manoukian workshop - ROH hopes to reduce its carbon footprint and prolong the life of its costumes.

South Essex College pupils will also have access to workrooms and costume archives.

Alex Beard, the ROH chief executive joined Angela O'Donoghue, the South Essex College principal for the ceremonial turning of the turf at the Production Park last week.

Meanwhile, outdoor arts company Kinetika is moving to the Purfleet park from London. The design company that specialises in outdoor participatory arts responsible for the costumes and spectacle of the London 2012 Paralympic Closing Ceremony and the Athletes Parade.

It has moved from its home in East London to establish a new studio base in Thurrock as part of the region's growing arts and culture scene.

Ali Pretty, founder and creative director of Kinetika, said: "High House feels like a very natural home for us, it is stunning site and we are surrounded by neighbours who like us are committed to education, inspiration, training and employment.

"From here we hope to meet as many people as possible who are involved in the transformation and regeneration of the region ﾖ from artists to housebuilders to the children who will be the next generation to benefit from the opportunities on offer."

Thurrock Gazette:

The turning of the turf - Alex Beard, Royal Opera House CEO joins South Essex College prinicpal Angela O'Donoghue, costume centre staff and college pupils for the ceremony.