News Archive - Half a million for arts in Thurrock

Around half a million pounds of funding has been given to Thurrock to develop arts in the borough, following a successful bid by the council to Arts Council England, East.

The Arts Generate project will fund major works of art and boost jobs and tourism in the area.

Thurrock has been given the largest amount of funding out of a total of five successful projects across the country. Over three years, it is hoped that the arts in their many different forms will help regenerate and transform the local community.

Across the Eastern region, Arts Generate will include:

• Opportunities for people to enjoy high quality arts activities
• Thriving new arts businesses contributing to the local economy
• Major arts events and attractions contributing to cultural tourism
• A new image for urban and coastal areas as vibrant cultural centres
• New public works of art that enhance town centres, seafronts and communities
• Opportunities for career development and redeployment through creative businesses.

Cabinet member for regeneration, Councillor John Kent, said: "It's great news that Arts Council England has recognised the huge potential that Thurrock has.

"We will seize this opportunity to help us develop business skills, assist lifelong learning and bring exciting arts projects to every part of our borough."

Nicky Adamson, Arts Generate project manager at Thurrock Council, said: "With the space to work and perform and the chance for people to enjoy creative activities close to home, Thurrock and its residents will come alive.

"We can provide opportunities through the arts to support our diverse communities which will in turn contribute to the local economy and regeneration."