Millions invested in capital and regenerative projects for cultural sector
Bradford 2025 says 21 organisations in Bradford district will receive grants from the £3m Cultural Capital Fund.
The organisations are receiving funding to deliver projects which will increase the cultural infrastructure and enable more people to access and participate in cultural activities during 2025 and beyond.
The projects focus on the regeneration of existing community and cultural spaces, as well as introduction of new and sustainable extensions to community organisations.
Made possible thanks to funding from Bradford Council, the Cultural Capital Fund will support regenerative projects across the district, such as:
- £300,000 for Greensville Trust
The Mustafa Mount Art & Culture Centre, a section of the former University Management Centre, will be refurbished to develop a permanent and sustainable gallery that celebrates art and culture projects year-round, inspired by collections from history, globally and Bradford residents.
- £280,000 for African Caribbean Achievement Project
African Caribbean Achievement Project will renovate and transform their existing community centre into a dynamic Arts and Culture Centre.
The centre will function as a cultural hub, offering space for activities and events in music, dance, visual and digital arts, drama, and storytelling.
- £50,000 for Bloomin’ Buds
The grant secured by Bloomin’ Buds will allow the organisation to professionally kit out the performance space at The Rockwell Centre in Thorpe Edge, transforming the existing venue to provide a quality arts venue experience for the local area.
The funds will be invested in fixed lighting rigs, moveable raked seating, sound systems, blackout screens and other technical equipment to enrich the experience for performers and audiences.
- £10,000 for Mind The Gap
MTG Studios, Mind the Gap’s Manningham base will benefit from an upgraded lighting desk, a purpose-built box office unit, the installation of a new Hearing Loop system, new external signage, and installation of a tannoy system for public announcements.
- £10,000 for Ilkley Playhouse
Ilkley Playhouse will use funds to modernise its main passenger lift which provides access to the venue from street level to the Box Office and coffee bar, and above to the main Wharfeside Theatre.
Dan Bates, executive director at Bradford 2025, said “The Cultural Capital Fund is a great example of our ambition to increase investment in the cultural infrastructure within the Bradford district, giving residents and visitors alike greater opportunity to experience the arts, culture and creativity during 2025 and beyond.
“There was an overwhelming response to the grant fund, with applications far exceeding the funding available, highlighting how determined venues are to improve their facilities ahead of Bradford 2025.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the projects begin in the coming months, demonstrating a key milestone in our preparations for Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture.”
Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “As stated in Bradford Council’s Culture is Our Plan 10-year strategy, we’re striving to ensure arts, culture and heritage activities can be accessed and are inclusive for everyone across the district; something that this grant aims to do.
“These projects provide a real legacy for Bradford and its communities, so I’m really looking forward to seeing them come to fruition.”
