We have launched a new set of priorities for culture in Wales. Our goal is to create opportunities for everyone, no matter their age or where they come from.
To make this happen, we are investing £15 million. This funding was confirmed in the recent final budget.
How the Funding Works
The Minister for Culture, Jack Sargeant, announced the plan today. The £15 million investment will be divided into two main streams:
- £8 million will go to the Arts Council of Wales for major arts projects.
- £7 million will support the running and improvement of museums, archives, libraries, and historic sites.
The Minister explained the thinking behind the investment.
“I am pleased to publish the Priorities for Culture today,” he said. “This £15 million provides vital funding to support our cultural ambitions and will have a significant impact across Wales.”
What This Will Support
This new funding will help us improve arts and culture in several key areas. We will focus on creating more opportunities for children and young people and improving access for everyone.
It will also provide resources to help the sector tackle climate change, develop skills, and improve its digital services.
“I am immensely proud of the culture sector,” the Minister added. “Every day, I witness the positive power of culture. This is a vision developed with and for the sector, and I look forward to working collaboratively to deliver these Priorities.”
A Record of Investment
This announcement builds on our recent work across Wales. In the last few years, we have:
- Opened Celf, the new national contemporary art gallery.
- Pushed forward with the redevelopment of Theatr Clwyd and a new football museum in Wrexham.
- Awarded over £5 million since 2022 to make cultural spaces and collections more inclusive.
- Provided almost £3 million for urgent work at the National Library of Wales and Amgueddfa Cymru.
- Invested over £3.5 million in local museums, libraries, and archives since 2022.
- Launched a new grant scheme that has given £420,000 to improve local storage and care for collections.
A Welcome from the Sector
Leaders in the culture sector have already welcomed the news.
Dr Ken Griffin, President of Museums Federation Cymru, said, “Imagine a Wales where every local museum is a vibrant centre for learning, volunteering, and cultural discovery. The new Priorities for Culture document paves the way for a connected culture sector, ensuring these institutions can continue to enrich lives and build a strong sense of ‘cynefin’ for all.”
Images and Source https://www.gov.wales/new-priorities-culture-centre-opportunities-all