Venue Cymru is to receive a £10m cash boost from the UK Government, ministers have confirmed.
At the Autumn Budget, the Chancellor took the difficult decision to suspend the unfunded commitments the previous Conservative government had made as part of the Levelling Up Culture and Capital Projects, placing this project at risk.
However, the Government was clear that it would be consulting with potential funding recipients before making a final decision. Today’s announcement of £10m for Venue Cymru is a product of that consultation.
Venue Cymru is a key part of North Wales’ cultural offer, attracting visitors from around the world. This funding is designed to help stimulate economic growth in Llandudno, reinvesting money into the local community.
The £10m financial boost will upgrade the largest arts centre in Wales outside Cardiff and facilitate a much-needed transformation of the building.
Unlike the unfunded spending commitments the Conservatives made, this announcement prioritises important cultural projects while also protecting tax-payers’ money.
Today’s announcement is great news for the staff and volunteers at Venue Cymru, as well as the surrounding local economy. The creative industries are a key growth sector for North Wales, and Venue Cymru has a vital role to play.
I look forward to further discussions with Conwy County Borough Council on the plans for Venue Cymru, which include plans for a new cultural hub. I am aware that the results of the consultation regarding the potential move of the library from Mostyn St to Venue Cymru have yet to be published, and I will be following this matter with interest.
