In a landmark move, the British government has announced a £1.5 billion lifeline to breathe new life into England’s cultural heart, promising to save over 1,000 cherished venues from the brink of closure. This five-year funding plan aims to “turn the corner” on a decade of underfunding, targeting urgent repairs for museums, libraries, galleries, and heritage sites across the country.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy described the package as vital for “restoring national pride” and uniting communities in divided times. By securing the future of these institutions, the government hopes to provide families with affordable, accessible days out amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
The funding includes £760 million for museums, split between national heavyweights such as the Natural History Museum and British Museum in London, and local sites like the Royal Armouries in Leeds. An additional £425 million will go towards supporting arts venues, while £230 million is earmarked for protecting and preserving heritage buildings, including listed places of worship.
“This funding will keep the doors open and the lights on at thousands of arts organisations, museums, libraries and heritage buildings that might otherwise have been at real risk of closure,” said Ms Nandy. “It will unlock opportunities for millions of people who have been shut out for far too long.”
The cultural sector currently supports 700,000 jobs across the country, and this package is expected to support thousands more for years to come. The investment will also enable national museums and DCMS-sponsored cultural organisations to deliver on their commitments to share their collections and expertise nationally, drawing in visitors from around the world.
Responses from industry leaders have been overwhelmingly positive. Antony Gormley, the renowned sculptor, said he is “delighted to hear our government is delivering for the arts through this serious uplift in funding.” Actress and writer Adjoa Andoh welcomed the announcement, stating that “all the citizens of our country should have access to all the culture in our country.”
With this substantial investment, the government aims to not only save cherished cultural venues but also to reinvigorate the nation’s sense of pride and unity, ensuring that the arts, culture, and heritage remain accessible to all.
