Two local music venues have been awarded £25,000 by the local authority which will act as 'vital lifelines' for the businesses.
Milton Keynes Council has awarded these grants to live music venues MK11 and Unit 9.
Both of these venues were unable to secure funding through previous Government schemes, including the £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund, which saw The Stables receive a large handout of £847,000, while much-loved Bletchley Park received £447,000.
MK11 and Unit 9 had their applications for the Culture Recovery Fund rejected, and in October 2020 Milton Keynes MP Ben Everitt said he was speaking to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport to see if they were any other ways to support the venues.
Nothing ever came of this and residents shared their disappointment.
But now, these venues have been given a "vital lifeline" through an exceptional grants award from the council.
Businesses applying under this category must demonstrate that they are of strategic value to the council and the local economy.
Milton Keynes Council says that MK11 and Unit 9 are among the city’s most iconic grassroots music venues, with both venues supporting emerging local artists – often giving them their first gig so they can develop their careers.
Cllr Pete Marland, Leader of MK Council, said: “The pandemic has left the cultural sector on the brink with many premises facing the possibility of never being able open their doors again.
"These two organisations make a considerable impact to our cultural economy, and importantly give hardworking artists a chance to fulfil their potential. We hope this financial support helps them continue developing performers as well as keeping our cultural scene alive and kicking.”
For more information about the support available to businesses, please visit the council’s website.
