£5 million funding boost for cultural projects across North Northants

03 April 2024

North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) has been provisionally allocated £5m of capital Levelling Up funding from Government for investment in cultural projects in the area.

To secure the allocation, NNC must complete an investment plan detailing the project(s) the funds would be used for and submit this to Government by 10 May 2024. It is now seeking projects to include in an investment plan.

Projects need to be of a significant scale, meaning at least £500k and / or have a strategic impact on the area and able to be completed by March 2026.

Following the recent launch of the tourism strategy for Northamptonshire, it is fantastic that we have an opportunity to apply for this government funding. We are very fortunate to live in a rich tapestry with many cultural highlights and attractions. This funding, if approved, will help further influence and grow the cultural offering. 

There are many fantastic cultural organisations with truly passionate and knowledgeable volunteers here in North Northants and we want to hear of their project plans. This funding could help to further develop this tapestry and shape North Northants into a must visit cultural destination. We have not got long to make the bid so I urge those interested to get in touch without delay.Cllr Helen Howell, the council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Sport, Leisure, Culture and Tourism

This provisional funding allocation is great news and as with any funding we are allocated from Government, we like to ensure it gets to the projects that can make a positive impact on the area.  This includes helping our economy to grow and creating jobs. So I would encourage anyone with a project in the pipeline to get in touch and submit a form before 22 April 2024.Cllr David Brackenbury, the council’s Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration

We welcome this funding announcement which recognises the positive influence that cultural interventions can have on the prosperity of our communities and that North Northants is a priority area for Government.Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council

Anyone who would like to submit a project for consideration, please contact [email protected] for an application form. Completed forms should be returned by Monday 22 April 2024.