Arun District Council has approved two more years of funding for a creative arts programme.
The council’s housing and wellbeing committee unanimously approved an additional £63,000 for charity Artswork Ltd for another two years until 2028, with previous council funding totalling around £90,000 to run out early 2026.
A report to the committee at its meeting on Thursday, September 11, said this was part of phase three of the Arun Inspires Programme, established in 2019, which aims to ‘advance the cultural offer’ for young people in the district.
It also said approval of Artswork on the scheme by the council was conditional to be able to receive grant funding for £94,000 from the Arts Council England over a two year period.
In April this year, the project saw 700 Littlehampton and Rustington primary school students attend a series of short films at the Windmill Entertainment Centre in Littlehampton, by Chichester University, about the works of the Sussex Kelp Recovery Project.
Chair of the committee Carol Birch (Green, Arundel and Walberton) said she really valued Artswork’s work with the Arun Youth Council so far, saying it is ‘wonderful’ to be able to hear their concerns more directly.
Alison Cooper (Con, Rustington East) said the proposal for continued funding was a ‘no brainer’ considering the extra grant money from Arts Council England.
The report said some planned projects for up to 2028 would include at least six ‘creative commissions’ with young people in the district, 12 to 18 youth consultations, and 2 creative industry career events in partnership with Chichester University and other industry support.
It said over the next nine months, three more projects will take place under the programme, including ‘transforming’ Hotham Park underpass, ‘Colour Up Wick’ a series of art and skill sessions at Chilgrove House, and another programme in partnership with Ormiston Six Villages in Barnham.
Worthing murder investigation: Man charged
London man sentenced to five years for supplying drugs in Eastbourne
ID appeal following robbery from a Brighton shop
Councillors defer decision on Eastbourne Bandstand works
Hampshire County Council to consider car parking proposals at Danebury Hill Fort
University of Chichester celebrates teacher’s achievements
Council reviews Tax Reduction Scheme to better support vulnerable residents
Portsmouth University House redevelopment
Councils want feedback on the A24
Police appeal after ATM taken in Locks Heath
On Air