Gosport groups urged to bid for cultural funding

LOCAL MP and former Culture Minister, Dame Caroline Dinenage, has encouraged cultural organisations across Gosport, Lee on the Solent, Stubbington and Hill Head to bid for funding from £75 million boost in recently announced support from the Government.

Arts Council England (ACE) and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport have identified 109 ‘Levelling Up for Culture Places’ – with Gosport being one of them – which will be targeted for additional investment.

Organisations old and new in areas that historically have had low investment in arts and culture will be encouraged to bid for funds over the coming weeks and months, meaning places such as Gosport could be given the extra support they need to boost their cultural offer.

This announcement delivers on the Conservative Government commitment as set out in its Levelling Up White Paper to raise cultural spending significantly outside the capital, boosting opportunity for all.

Commenting Caroline said: “Over recent years Gosport has benefitted from increased community-led cultural activities. I am pleased that this funding has the potential to ensure these will be able to continue long in to the future.  Culture is a vital part of creating a friendly and happy community and so I urge cultural organisations across the constituency to bid for funds.”

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: “I have said from day one in this role my priority is to increase access to arts and culture across the whole country. Today marks a big step in achieving this aim as we shift new cultural investment into places previously at the back of the queue. Culture enriches people’s lives. It entertains us, brings us together and can be a catalyst for regeneration. Everyone should have access to it no matter where they live or what their background.”

PICTURED BY CONNOR STEEL: Gosport in the sunset from Portsmouth (opposite harbour train station)