AN empty city centre pharmacy will soon be turned into an artistic oasis where people can escape the stresses of everyday life.

The Boots store on Bank Street was one of many left empty as chains re-located to the new Broadway shopping centre last year.

But after almost a year lying empty, it is about to be transformed into a hub for artists and members of the public who want to take time out of their day and get creative.

Known as Boots Rebooted, the unit will act as a space where artists can show off their work, as well as a “chilled zone” where the public can drop in and take part in arts and crafts events as a way of unwinding.

The venture is being run by Lorain Behrens, an arts workshop facilitator and entrepreneur, who hoped to have it open in November.

The Boots unit was re-opened thanks to East Street Arts, an arts collective that brings empty buildings back to use on temporary leases. The group has also helped turn the former Marks & Spencer unit on Darley Street into an arts hub, a money lenders on Ivegate has become the temporary base for arts group The Brick Box and the former Beales store on Sunwin House in Keighley is now a space for artists, charities and events.

Mrs Behrens said: “I would like it to become a chilled art zone where people from any background and any age can drop in and just do some art.

“We’ll be setting up a lot of craft and arts tables so people can just come in in the middle of their busy day. People live very stressful lives, so to be able to drop in and get artistic for half an hour or longer in the middle of the day gives them a bit of a break from everyday life.

“It will also be a place where people can come in, meet new people and talk about art.

“We want to offer an alternative to the commercial shopping experience that you normally get in the city centre.

“I’ve always loved art and seeing people’s reaction to art, when they do something they’ve never thought of doing before.”

While she prepares to open the unit, people have been invited to drop by and help decorate by painting or drawing on wall panels.

Plans are for Boots Rebooted to open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

And the basement of the building is also being brought back to use - musician Hashfinger has created a recording studio there.

Mrs Behrens is now asking people for donations of furniture, including sofas and tables, in preparation for the unit’s opening.

Any artists who want to get involved, has ideas on how to use the space, or would like to display their work there can also get in touch.

To donate, or exhibit, contact email bootsrebooted23@gmail.com or visit Boots Rebooted on Facebook.