South Lakes arts and culture set for million pound boost

South Lakeland MP Tim Farron has praised the council for securing over a million pounds of new funding for an exciting project to celebrate local arts, culture and heritage. Tim said it will "reinforce South Lakeland's reputation as the UK's leading rural cultural destination".

It has been announced today that a joint bid by South Lakeland and Craven District Councils has been awarded £1.34million by Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund for the 'Great Place' project. The aim is to attract and retain young people and business to the area by supporting and developing creative and cultural opportunities. The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authorities have also both been involved in the bid.

SLDC portfolio holder for Culture and Wellbeing, Cllr Chris Hogg, originally encouraged the two councils to promote a partnership bid. It is one of just 16 successful bids across the country.

Tim said: "To bring in over a million pounds for such a prestigious project is a phenomenal achievement, and is fantastic news for our area. Whether you're a budding young artist, enjoy going to festivals, art exhibitions or museums in our area, or run a local tourist business, this funding will be a real boost.

"This project will reinforce South Lakeland's richly-deserved reputation as the UK's leading rural cultural destination.

"In particular, I'd like to thank Cllr Hogg for his hard work and determination in making this bid a success. He has been the driving force behind this project since the very beginning and this announcement is a fitting reward for his efforts."