Regional politicians express shock over arts funding cuts

Craig Williams, Member of Parliament (MP), and Russell George, Member of the Senedd (MS), both representing Montgomeryshire, have voiced their profound concern and astonishment at the recent decision by the Arts Council of Wales (ACW) to curtail multi-year funding for The Hafren theatre and Mid Wales Opera, effective from April 2024.

The ACW has decided not to provide revenue funding to The Hafren and Mid Wales Opera under the new scheme set to be implemented in 2024, marking an end to decades of support for these renowned artistic institutions.

This new funding scheme has led to Powys experiencing one of the most significant reductions in arts funding in Wales, with the county facing a reduction of more than 25% compared to its funding from the previous year.

Craig Williams and Russell George have expressed their profound shock at the ACW's decision and have taken the initiative to communicate their concerns. They have jointly written to ACW's Chief Executive, Dafydd Rhys, as well as the Welsh Government's Minister for Arts, Dawn Bowden MS, and Powys County Council Leader, Cllr James Gibson-Watt, seeking urgent discussions to address this critical issue.

Craig Williams MP commented:

"This decision is profoundly disappointing for both The Hafren and Mid Wales Opera, and it has far-reaching implications for the arts and culture scene in Montgomeryshire. These organizations are an integral and invaluable part of our community and the broader Mid Wales region. At a time when we aim to enhance public access to Wales' rich heritage of music, arts, and culture, the decision to cut decades of funding is not only detrimental to the future of The Hafren and Mid Wales Opera but also to the accessibility of arts and culture throughout Wales."

He further added:

"The ACW has acknowledged the existence of a funding gap in North Powys. Therefore, the decision to cut arts funding for the region by over 25% compared to last year's allocation is nothing short of outrageous and will undoubtedly have severe and long-lasting consequences. Both Russell and I are urgently seeking discussions with the ACW, Welsh Government, and Powys County Council to address this concerning situation."

Russell George MS remarked:

"I am shocked by the ACW's choice to discontinue multi-year funding for The Hafren and Mid Wales Opera, effectively ending decades of support for both institutions. Arts and culture should not be confined solely to major cities like Cardiff but should be accessible across the entire country. It is imperative that places like Mid Wales continue to provide these cultural experiences to the local community and beyond. Audiences at The Hafren come not only from Montgomeryshire but also from West and North Wales, as well as from across the English border, contributing significantly to our local economy."

"Craig and I are eager to meet with the ACW and the Welsh Government Minister as soon as possible to address this critical matter."