Support for arts and culture 

Motionshouse 4 lyceum square

Image taken by Pete Robinson of Crewe Photographic Society.

Grant funding available for cultural activities March 2024

Cheshire East is inviting applications to local organisations to deliver cultural activities with funding support from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

For the purposes of these grants, cultural activities are defined as arts, heritage, museums, festivals and events, new media and creative and digital industries. Organisations may apply for 80 per cent of their project’s cost up to a maximum of £10,000.

It is expected that the wide remit of what the grant can be used for will attract a large number of applicants, who need to represent one of the following:

● a voluntary or community organisation;

● a town or parish council; or

● a registered charity or not for profit organisation

In addition to delivery of cultural activity, grants may also support sustainability of local cultural organisations, providing that what they deliver takes place in the borough and is for the benefit of Cheshire East residents.

Councillor Mark Goldsmith, chair of Cheshire East Council’s economy and growth committee, said: “This is a great opportunity for an incredibly wide range of organisations to deliver really effective projects, which can benefit people already well immersed in the local arts community and those looking to become more engaged. Good luck with your applications!”

The scheme is now open and the deadline to submit applications is midday on Sunday 24 March. Applicants will be informed of the outcome of their grant submissions on Tuesday 26 March. 

Paper application forms are available by emailing culturaleconomy@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Cheshire East Council’s goal for culture is to transform lives and places through access to great culture. Find out more about the Council's priorities for culture in the Cultural Framework (PDF, 791KB.)

Services provided include:

  • strategic arts planning and funding
  • arts funding advice
  • networking opportunities - advice and opportunities for exhibitors and performers/special events
  • information for artists, arts organisations and community groups
  • promotion of cultural and community events  and support for event organisers
  • training and development

We support theatre through the Rural Touring Network and own the Lyceum Theatre in Crewe.

Crewe Town Centre Regeneration Programme

Cheshire East Council is advancing plans for Crewe to be the location of a new state-of-the art history centre to co-host the region’s archive. More information is on the Crewe History Centre page. 

The council is also a proud contributor to the Crewe Cultural Strategy, which seeks to support regeneration and put culture and heritage at the heart of a newly invigorated Crewe town centre. More information and a copy of the strategy can be found by on the Crewe Town Centre Regeneration Programme page.

Lyceum Square (Ly²)

Ly² is an exciting new event space in the heart of Crewe town centre.  With the ability to host:

  • live music
  • theatre and family events
  • community performances
  • art installations
  • film screenings
  • live sports

It will bring life into the town centre, and give residents and visitors a focal point for entertainment in Crewe.

We want to hear from individuals and organisations who have events they’d like to make happen in the square. Whether you’re a singer wanting to be part of a festival, a dance group wanting to showcase your latest piece, a filmmaker or just a group who like to perform, then Lyceum Square is a space for you too.

Contact us

For more information on support for arts, culture and events, contact us on the details below:

  • Cultural Economy Manager Tel: 01270 686089
  • Cultural Economy Development Manager Tel: 01270 686090 / 686915
  • Events Manager Tel: 01270 686785 / 07834 342979
  • General enquiries email: culturaleconomy@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Page last reviewed: 27 July 2021