Spalding's Ayscoughfee Hall to become cultural hub following £2 million of arts funding
Almost £2 million of funding will help the area promote art and creativity in the area - with Ayscoughfee Hall set to become a cultural hub.
The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership has been awarded National Portfolio Organisation status for the first time from Arts Council England.
Funding of £1,955,799 has been allocated for 2023-2026.
This will help support arts and cultural organisations across South Holland, East Lindsey and Boston.
It will also support the creation of cultural centres at The Guildhall in Boston, Ayscoughfee Hall in South Holland and the Colonnade in Sutton on Sea, and fund a programme of art and culture across the partnership - centred on the rich heritage and stories from each district.
Gary Porter, leader of South Holland District Council, said: “Being part of the National Portfolio investment programme and the funding awarded will create new opportunities for our residents, community groups and organisations and support Ayscoughfee Hall in Spalding as a central hub.
“The heritage of South Holland is what shapes this district and we should all celebrate the stories which have built our communities. Going to any event, whether it be a drama group, show or festival, can really help improve health and wellbeing. I am pleased this funding will help our residents access even more things to do on their doorstep.”
Education, research and skills programmes will also be developed, giving more people access to culture on their doorstep.
The NPO comes after Boston and East Lindsey adopted a new cultural framework which sets out an ambitious vision for culture, connecting heritage and the visitor economy while recognising the health and wellbeing benefits culture brings to people's lives.
The partnership is committed to extending the cultural framework into South Holland too.
Competition for the status was extremely high, with 1,700 applications made nationally from organisations, venues and providers.
In total, 990 organisations will receive a share of £446 million (each year) ensuring that more people in more places have access to fulfilling art and culture.
