- So far, the Government has provided £16 million worth of support to independent cinemas from Penrith to Penzance, and more will be able to apply for another £14 million in grants in the new year.
More than 200 independent cinemas across England are being supported this Christmas with £16 million in grants from the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.
Theo Clarke MP has welcomed this news locally – with independent cinemas including Stafford Cinema in Ms Clarke's constituency being supported. So far, cinemas outside of London have benefitted from 78 per cent of this funding.
Independent cinemas will be able to apply for another £14 million in grants in the new year as part of the second round of the Culture Recovery Fund.
The Culture Recovery Fund is an unprecedented package worth £1.57 billion to protect Britain’s world-class cultural, arts and heritage institutions through the coronavirus pandemic. Many of our much-loved institutions – from theatres, museums and pantomimes – have been able to apply for funding to help weather the impacts of coronavirus.
Recognising that cinemas need content, the Government’s £500 million Film and TV Production Restart Scheme has helped keep the cameras rolling. The scheme opened for applications in October – and has assured nearly 100 productions that they will be supported if future losses are incurred due to coronavirus and provided the confidence they need to restart filming.
From today, the scope of the Restart Scheme has been extended so that cast and crew over the age of 70 can be included in the cover provided by the scheme – giving them confidence to start or restart production, increasing employment opportunities for this group.
Commenting, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said:
“The magic of film is such an important part of the festive period and this investment will help protect our independent cinemas so they're around for many Christmases to come. Alongside it, the extension of the Film and TV Production Restart Scheme means the UK will be producing even more great content as the cinema industry recovers, keeping us at the forefront of the creative industries.”
Commenting, Theo Clarke MP said:
“I know how much people enjoy visiting their local cinemas and how important they are to our communities. I am delighted that independent cinemas across the country, including Stafford Cinema have received support from the Government. This will be vital for these venues through Christmas and beyond."
