The High Peak is set to benefit from funding from the Government-run Arts Council England, after it announced a £1,266,624 investment from 2023-26.

The government-funded boost of £130 million over the next three years is a nationwide investment into 78 locations designated as Levelling Up for Culture Places, which include Buxton Arts Festival Limited and Buxton Opera House in the High Peak.

The grants represent a 95% increase compared to past investment between 2018-22.

Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, has welcomed the funding, which will see Buxton Arts Festival Limited receive £122,208 and Buxton Opera House receive £300,000.

The grants are another example of the Government providing a long-term investment in our country’s talent and supporting the next generation of creators, performers and artists whilst committing to supporting existing organisations.

Mr Largan welcomes the funding, which is the Government’s largest regular investment and which will ensure that more people in more places than ever before will have access to fantastic, fulfilling art and culture in the High Peak.

Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:

“It is fantastic that the Conservative Government has committed to funding arts and culture in the High Peak to the tune of nearly half a million pounds over the next few years.

“Buxton International Festival and Buxton Opera House are absolutely vital to the town’s economy, helping to create large numbers of jobs in our local tourism and hospitality sectors. But investing in arts and culture isn’t just good for the economy, it’s good for the soul!

“I’ll keep working with local arts and culture organisations to make the High Peak an even better place to live!”