UK Venues, Theaters, Cultural Spaces to Receive £1.57 Billion in Government Aid

The UK government has announced a stimulus package of £1.57 billion ($1.96 billion USD) that will be allocated toward “theatres, galleries, museums and other cultural venues” as BBC News reports. Additionally, music venues, independent cinemas, and heritage sites will be eligible for new emergency grants and loans. The funds will be distributed in response to the financial stress venues have suffered throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Read BBC News’ full report, and find the UK government’s press release here.

According to the government’s press release, a sum of £1.15 billion of the total amount will be allocated to cultural organizations in England, delivered through a mix of £880 million in grants and £270 million in repayable loans. A portion of funds will be set aside for Northern Ireland (£33 million), Scotland (£97 million), and Wales (£59 million). Additionally, £100 million will go toward national cultural institutions in England and the English Heritage Trust, and £120 million will go toward heritage construction projects in England that were paused during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read “What Happens When a Music Festival Is Canceled Due to Coronavirus?” on the Pitch.

Originally Appeared on Pitchfork