Six-week arts festival looks set for district as Fenland Place Partnership gets £420k grant from Arts Council England
A six-week arts festival is set to come to the district alongside other activities, thanks to an organisation being awarded a £420,000 grant.
The Fenland Place Partnership announced it has secured funding from Arts Council England to launch its three-year £1m cultural programme.
It aims to get young people interested in becoming cultural leaders by building new networks and providing skills and training.
The organisation will use the grant to host a multi-arts festival in the summer of 2027.
It will feature a mix of productions, exhibitions and events, bringing people together with professional artists.
Hazel Edwards, South East area director for Arts Council England, said: “The Arts Council is proud to support the Fenland Place Partnership.
“This ambitious programme is a brilliant example of how long-term investment can empower communities, develop future cultural leaders, and celebrate creativity.
“With strong local partnerships and a clear vision for growth, Fenland is building a vibrant cultural future for everyone who lives there.”
The remainder of the funds have come from Clarion Futures and its delivery partners, with sponsorship from businesses and box office income expected to help boost finances.
Clarion Housing Group, a charity which owns and manages thousands of homes in the area, will be coordinating the project alongside the district council, MarketPlace Arts, and Twenty20 Productions.
Those participating in the programme will be able to access support provided by Clarion Futures to explore career pathways and find work in the arts and culture sector.
Matt Parsonage, head of communities at the charity, said: “Fenland is an area we’ve invested in over many years through Clarion Futures, teaming up with a network of fantastic partners to support projects that make a positive difference for local people.
“Thanks to this funding from Arts Council England, we’re excited to build on this work and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Fenland, providing opportunities for young adults to learn new skills, get involved with events and potentially find a career in this flourishing sector.”
He added that the organisation is looking forward to working with the community and the other organisers to develop plans.
MP Steve Barclay was also pleased, saying the funding will “help unlock” Fenland’s potential.
“Following my roundtable and various discussions with Arts Council England and local arts groups, it is welcome that Fenland is receiving this financial support,” he said.
“It is important that rural communities are supported to thrive within their local area, rather than the expectation that they travel to the nearest city, when transport links often make that difficult.
“It is welcome that the Arts Council and Clarion Futures will be working with young people across Fenland to support them to unlock their creative abilities.”
