'Vital' Wolverhampton Arts Centre among 13 West Midlands cultural hubs getting major funding boost

Wolverhampton Arts Centre will receive £4,999,999 from the government to support its function as a hub for artists and the local community. The centre located in Whitmore Reans is known for its studio spaces and performances.

In March, Wolverhampton Arts Centre (WAC) took a a community asset transfer of the Whitmore Reans-based buildings from Wolverhampton Council so that it could secure more funding.

• Read more: 'Safeguarding a much-loved centre': Historic front to be restored and leaking roof repaired at Black Country venue

The arts centre is among 130 cultural venues, local museums and libraries that are set to benefit from a £127.8 million funding boost, helping to ensure that everyone can access arts and culture in the places they call home.

Here in the West Midlands, Wolverhampton Arts Centre is among 13 set for the new funding boost.

The 12 other locations are:

• Stoke on Trent & North Staffordshire Theatre Trust - £295,308
• Royal Shakespeare Company - £7,298,800
• Paines Plough - £750,000
• Birmingham Royal Ballet - £949,953
• Birmingham Repertory Theatre - £3,047,229
• Claybody Theatre - £150,000
• Black Country Living Museum - £454,159
• Compton Verney - £794,750
• Walsall Council - £170,000
• City of Wolverhampton Council - £270,000
• Shropshire Libraries - £299,000
• Telford & Wrekin - £235,971

“Across the country, people take real pride in where they come from. Our local arts, museums and libraries are a big part of that, telling our stories, reflecting who we are, and bringing communities together,” Lisa Nandy, the UK Culture Secretary said.

She continued: “That’s why our Arts Everywhere Fund matters. We’re backing the places people care about most, with support for 130 venues across the country announced today. Arts and culture aren’t a luxury for a privileged few. They are for everyone, everywhere . They bring people together, open doors, and support our shared sense of belonging. That’s the role they can play as we build a stronger future for our country.”

Local representatives have also welcomed the news.

“Our local arts and cultural spaces are at the heart of our community, bringing people together and celebrating what makes Wolverhampton special,” Warinder Juss, Labour MP for Wolverhampton West said. He also said that, “This funding will help secure the future of Wolverhampton Arts Centre, improving access and ensuring it continues to serve local people for years to come. After years of underinvestment, this Labour government is backing our cultural institutions and recognising the vital role they play in our communities.”

Similarly, Cllr Obaida Ahemd, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community said: “Wolverhampton Arts Centre is a vital part of our community – somewhere people come together, learn new skills and take pride in where they live. This investment will make a real difference locally, helping to keep these spaces open, accessible and thriving for years to come. It shows the difference a Labour government is making – investing in our communities and backing the things that matter most to local people.”