Nationally Significant Cultural Institutions: Capital Maintenance Costs

Debate between Baroness Elliott of Whitburn Bay and Baroness Dacres of Lewisham

Monday 2nd November 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Dacres of Lewisham (Lab)]

This Government are deeply committed to supporting our world-renowned venues of culture and visual arts. It is important to mention that it has been over a decade since this sector has seen such investment in it—£1.5 billion of investment in arts and culture has definitely raised the bar and it is there to help all the different bodies within the sector. It is also important that there is £425 million in the creative foundations fund, which helps to support capital need, which is challenging for a great number of these industries.

[Baroness Elliott of Whitburn Bay (Lab)]

My Lords, I welcome the investment that this Government are making in Britain’s cultural infrastructure, not just at the Royal Opera House but at venues across the country. However, given the Prime Minister’s commitment to devolving powers to regional and local government, can my noble friend comment on whether we can expect further devolution of powers in arts and culture?

[Baroness Dacres of Lewisham (Lab)]

This Government are dedicated and committed to devolution of power, resources and decision-making to the heart of our communities. This is why mayors are empowered through the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act to have strategic control over regional cultural investments. As I said, that brings the decision-making closer to those able to see, witness and experience our arts and culture, which we are extremely proud of, and we welcome that.