A BERKSHIRE council has backed down on its plans to axe arts funding to two arts centres.
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead abandoned plans for a 100% cut at a meeting held yesterday evening.
Instead it committed to a 17% increase in funding to Norden Farm, Maidenhead and Old Court, Windsor, pledging £140,000 for the financial year 2022-23.
The move comes following a campaign by Public Campaign for the Arts. It was supported by Theresa May MP, celebrities who had performed at the venues under threat, and more than 4,900 signatories to an online petition urging investment in arts and culture.
A consultants report into the venues on behalf of the borough council also found in favour of continued funding.
Mrs May welcomed the move and paid tribute to the PCA, those who signed the petition, and borough councillors for listening to the strength of feeling.
“I also want to thank my constituents who have taken the time to contact me to show their support,” she said.
“The arts play such an important role nationwide, helping to enrich our communities and expand our intellectual horizons.
“Norden Farm is an invaluable centre for the arts and provides excellent programmes for the benefit of the entire community.”
Cllr Andrew Johnson, council leader, said that public feedback is critical to councils.
“We are very, very pleased to be able to announce a funding support package,” he said. “While the borough overall is an affluent area, we have among the lowest council tax in England outside of London.
“This places financial pressure on budgets, especially with respect to areas of discretionary, non-statutory spend.”
And Jane Corry, artistic director and chief executive for Norden Farm thanked supporters for their “love and determination” to get sustained arts funding returned.
“The work of PCA in challenging the proposal and galvanising support has been incredible,” she said.
“We could not be more delighted about the decision.”