Key Points
- The Lowry in Salford Quays received the largest allocation of £1.2 million from the first round of Arts Everywhere funding.
- Arts Everywhere is a £85 million programme by Arts Council England to boost cultural activity across the North West, North East, and West Midlands.
- Total first-round allocations exceed £20 million, distributed to 50 organisations.
- Other major recipients include HOME in Manchester (£850,000), Baltic Centre in Gateshead (£1 million), and Factory International in Manchester (£900,000).
- Funding supports capital projects, audience development, and new artistic programmes over three years.
- Applications for the next round open in summer 2026.
- The programme aims to place arts at the heart of communities, with a focus on inclusivity and local impact.
- Decisions made by an independent panel chaired by Caroline Norbury OBE.
- The Lowry’s project includes expanding theatre spaces and digital arts initiatives.
Salford Quays (Manchester Mirror) April 14, 2026 –The Lowry, the renowned arts centre in Salford Quays, has emerged as the top recipient in the inaugural round of Arts Everywhere funding, securing £1.2 million to enhance its facilities and programmes. Arts Council England announced the allocations as part of a broader £85 million investment across the North West, North East, and West Midlands. This first tranche totals over £20 million, awarded to 50 cultural organisations to drive capital developments, audience growth, and innovative arts delivery.
As reported by James Dyson of Place North West, the funding underscores The Lowry’s pivotal role in the region’s cultural landscape. The centre, known for its theatre, galleries, and waterfront location, will use the grant for expansions including new performance spaces and digital engagement tools. Dyson noted that “The Lowry’s allocation positions it as the big winner, reflecting its ambition to reach wider audiences.”
Which organisations received Arts Everywhere funding?
Among the recipients, HOME in Manchester was awarded £850,000, the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead received £1 million, and Factory International in Manchester got £900,000. Other notable grants went to the Whitworth Art Gallery (£750,000), Manchester Camerata (£600,000), and the Royal Northern College of Music (£800,000). Further afield, mima in Middlesbrough secured £950,000, and the New Vic Theatre in Staffordshire obtained £700,000.
According to a statement from Arts Council England, as covered by Place North West, these awards followed rigorous assessment by an independent panel. Caroline Norbury OBE, chair of the panel, said: “These investments will transform cultural spaces and ensure arts remain central to communities.” The full list includes grassroots venues like Salford Community Arts (£250,000) and digital innovators such as Pixel Palace in Newcastle (£400,000).
How does Arts Everywhere funding work?
Arts Everywhere forms part of the government’s £85 million commitment from 2021, administered by Arts Council England to foster cultural growth outside London. The programme prioritises capital projects that build infrastructure, alongside revenue support for audience development and artistic risk-taking. Organisations must demonstrate plans for inclusivity, sustainability, and local economic impact.
Place North West detailed that applicants underwent a two-stage process, with the first round closing in late 2025. Successful bidders commit to three-year delivery plans, with progress monitored annually. Arts Council England’s press release, quoted extensively by Dyson, emphasised:
“This is about embedding arts everywhere, making culture accessible to all.”
What will The Lowry do with its £1.2 million allocation?
The Lowry plans to invest in theatre upgrades, new digital studios, and community outreach programmes. The project aims to increase capacity for diverse performances and host more free events. As stated by Frances Rifkin, Executive Director of The Lowry, in comments reported by Place North West:
“This funding allows us to future-proof our venue, welcoming more people from across the North West to experience world-class arts.”
Supporting statements from local leaders highlight the grant’s significance. Salford City Council’s culture lead, Councillor John Merry, remarked:
“The Lowry is a jewel in Salford’s crown, and this investment will amplify its impact on our communities.”
Why was The Lowry selected as the top recipient?
Selection criteria focused on organisational ambition, track record, and potential for regional benefit. The Lowry’s application stood out for its integrated plan combining physical upgrades with audience expansion strategies. Arts Council England’s assessment, as per their official announcement cited by Place North West, praised
“bold visions that align with our goal of arts for everyone.”
Comparative analysis shows The Lowry’s award exceeds others due to its scale home to two theatres, galleries, and over 1.5 million annual visitors. Dyson of Place North West observed that while larger venues like the Baltic also scored highly, The Lowry’s waterfront regeneration ties gave it an edge.
