Funding boost for arts groups amidst concern over lack of uptake in some areas
Local arts groups are set for an almost 50% boost in funding amid an “unprecedented demand” for grant aid.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council’s (LCCC) recent communities committee agreed to up-scale its grant scheme to just under £47,000 due to a high level of applications.
However, concerns were raised by a councillor of a low uptake in the funding in two council areas, with only one grant awarded in each and 29 awarded across the other five district areas.
Councillor Ryan Carlin said: “I can see that there was only one grant awarded to Castlereagh South and Killultagh, and I just want to make sure that the council is doing its best to advertise the grants scheme.
“I know there have been low turn outs for applications historically in those areas.”
Councillor Gretta Thompson said: "Obviously there is an increased demand. “Can we put in the process for next year’s rates and budget setting to incorporate that as there are more people coming forward for the arts programme?”
A council officer responded: “The funding had been set at £30,000, but following an unprecedented demand of 31 applications the total needed is £46,950.
“In terms of ineligible applications there was an agreed criteria, but we will work with the groups to make sure they are applying for the right grant schemes.
“There is a low uptake in those areas mentioned and we will be looking at outreaching to those. “Whilst the estimates have already been agreed, there is a grant aid review going on and we will be looking at some of the budgets on where we can streamline and align priorities.”