COLCHESTER’S already rich offering of art and culture is now set to benefit from a huge injection of funding as part of plans to improve the city and attract tourists.
Essex County Council has pledged to distribute £1 million over a four-year period to Firstsite, the Mercury Theatre and the Essex Cultural Diversity Project.
It is hoped the windfall will improve the lives of residents, draw in more visitors and help the council deliver its Everyone’s Essex and Levelling Up strategies.
They money will be used to provide health and wellbeing programmes and support people with mental and physical health issues through workshops.
Projects launched using the funding will also aim to challenge stereotypes while the creation of diverse events will benefit Colchester communities.
This will be achieved through cultural practitioners from ethnic minority groups being given the go-ahead to lead inspiring and informative programmes.
Before the pandemic Essex had the third largest creative industry sector in the UK - employing more than 25,000 people throughout the county.
Council bosses are now hopeful the investment in the newly-crowned city will increase income and result in even more jobs being established.
David King, Colchester Council leader, said: “Huge thanks to Essex County Council for joining us in support of such fantastic local arts and culture organisations.
“Together we are helping those who help others not just through entertainment, but in ways that can heal and bring communities together.
“[We are] improving the health and wellbeing and life chances of so many in the process.”
Graham Butland, Essex councillor responsible for devolution, the arts heritage and culture, said he is thrilled to help boost the culture of Colchester.
He added: “We are delighted to announce the funding as well as proud to continue to support these organisations.
“These organisations are receiving funding because Firstsite and the Mercury Theatre are both well renowned within the region’s arts and culture community.
“They bring tourism to the area, while the Essex Cultural Diversity Project is known for its exemplary cultural events which bring diverse communities together.”
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