Nine cultural projects across England, Wales, and Scotland are set to receive more than £64 million in funding, the Government has announced. The investment aims to drive economic growth, create jobs, and, in some cases, contribute to new housing developments.
The funding, allocated by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), will support key cultural initiatives in York, Leeds, Liverpool, Coventry, Worcester, Dundee, Conwy, and Newport.
Investment in the National Railway Museum and temple works
One of the biggest beneficiaries is the National Railway Museum in York, which will receive £15 million. The funds will contribute to the construction of a new Central Hall, providing an enhanced entrance, gallery space, retail areas, a café, event facilities, and visitor amenities. This project forms part of a broader regeneration scheme in York, which aims to transform underutilised railway land into a vibrant city quarter. The redevelopment could create over 3,000 homes, office space, retail hubs, and hospitality venues, generating more than 6,000 new jobs and an estimated £1.6 billion in economic value for the region.
Meanwhile, Temple Works in Leeds, a derelict Grade I listed building, will receive £10 million to bring it into public ownership. This move is the first step towards establishing British Library North within the site, unlocking further potential for housing and commercial development in the surrounding area.
Revitalising museums and cultural spaces
Significant funding has also been allocated to support museums and cultural institutions across the country:
- Liverpool’s International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum will receive £10 million for expansion and essential maintenance work.
- The National Poetry Centre in Leeds has been granted £5 million to renovate a redundant Grade II listed building, creating a national headquarters for poetry and literature.
- Coventry’s City Centre Cultural Gateway project has been allocated £5 million to repurpose the former Ikea building into a new cultural and visitor attraction.
- Three cultural projects in Worcester will receive a total of £2.3 million, focusing on delivering artistic and public spaces.
The Worcester projects include:
- Scala Co-Working Space, providing offices and studios for artistic companies.
- Next Level Food, revamping two mezzanine floors of the Corn Exchange to support exhibitions, events, and modern catering facilities.
- Angel Place is Your Space hub, creating a welcoming social space for young people.
Funding for Scotland and wales
In Scotland, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in Dundee is set to receive £2.6 million. The funding will expand and renovate the Scottish Design Galleries, enhancing the visitor experience and showcasing Scotland’s design heritage.
In Wales, two major projects will benefit from government support:
- Venue Cymru in Conwy has been granted £10 million to upgrade the largest Welsh arts centre outside Cardiff. The project includes relocating the existing library and Tourist Information Centre to create a modern cultural hub.
- Newport Transporter Bridge will receive £5 million for essential repairs and maintenance. The bridge is a historic landmark and plays a crucial role in South Wales’ tourism sector.
Government’s vision for cultural investment
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasised the importance of cultural investment in boosting local economies:
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“Every corner of the UK has something unique to offer, and our rich creative capital must not be underestimated. Through investing in these critical cultural projects, we can empower both local leaders and people to tap into their potential and celebrate everything their home town has to offer. This means more tourism, more growth, and more money in people’s pockets.”
Minister for Local Growth Alex Norris highlighted the nationwide significance of these projects:
“The benefits of these fantastic projects go far beyond community and county borders. They are key to unlocking a regional and nationwide celebration of UK culture and creativity, as well as driving growth and regeneration.”
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy reinforced the Government’s commitment to making arts and culture accessible to all:
“Everyone across the country should be able to access arts and culture in the place they call home. This support will empower our cultural organisations to continue playing an essential role in developing skills, talent, and high-quality careers in every corner of the UK.”
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray welcomed the funding for Dundee’s V&A Museum, saying it would help the institution celebrate Scottish design and improve visitor experiences. Similarly, Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens praised the investment in Venue Cymru and Newport Transporter Bridge, calling them “iconic landmarks in their local communities”.
Boosting the economy through culture
The MHCLG stressed that these projects will play a vital role in economic regeneration, creating new jobs and attracting tourism on a national scale. As cultural institutions across the UK continue to recover from the challenges of the past few years, this funding aims to revitalise historic landmarks, support local talent, and strengthen the creative industries for future generations.
