Photo credit: York Press.
Yorkshire arts organisations have welcomed Labour’s recent announcement of £67 million in funding for the arts, culture, and heritage sector, a move that aims to tackle the challenges faced by the UK’s cultural infrastructure. The funding, which is part of Labour’s broader strategy to support regional revitalisation, is set to benefit key projects across Yorkshire.
Among the significant investments is £15 million allocated to the National Railway Museum in York, which will be used to develop a new visitor centre as part of a wider regeneration initiative. This project is expected to create thousands of jobs and generate substantial economic benefits for the local area. Leeds is also set to benefit, with £10 million earmarked for the redevelopment of Temple Works into the British Library North, and a further £5 million for the creation of the National Poetry Centre. These initiatives are anticipated to boost Leeds’ cultural profile and attract increased tourism and research.
In Brighouse, West Yorkshire, a £19.1 million redevelopment plan will revitalise the town centre with a new indoor market and improved canalside areas. The project aims to enhance public spaces, encourage tourism, and drive local economic growth.
Labour’s funding announcement underscores a commitment to supporting Yorkshire’s economic and cultural development. By improving access to cultural facilities and preserving heritage sites, the funding is expected to contribute to long-term regional growth. With a focus on levelling up arts and culture across the UK’s regions, Yorkshire is poised to play a vital role in this cultural regeneration, benefiting from the wider national strategy to address regional disparities.