The Arkwright Society Ltd have been awarded £239,400 after successfully applying for the second round of the Culture Recovery Fund, set up to help the country’s cultural gems survive the coronavirus pandemic. On Friday 2nd April, Sarah Dines MP visited the Arkwright Society at Cromford Mills.
Commenting, Sarah Dines said:
“The past year has had a devastating impact on cultural and heritage organisations in Derbyshire Dales so it is fantastic news that £1,464,353 is being provided to support these most valued organisations in Derbyshire Dales . The Arkwright Society Ltd. Has been awarded £239,400. The Arkwright Society and the Mills at Cromford are a major part of the heritage of Derbyshire Dales and the country and I am thrilled this money will help it weather the covid storm and be there for future generations to enjoy. Since the beginning of the pandemic I have been lobbying the Government to support our important heritage and cultural sites in Derbyshire Dales.
On Friday I was lucky enough to meet Chief Executive, Simon Wallwork at the Mills again. The team clearly take a lot of pride in their work and have worked incredibly hard to make Cromford Mills a place for learning, entertainment and work. We are so lucky to have such brilliant examples of our industrial past, preserved and looked after for future generations here in Derbyshire.’
Chief Executive The Arkwright Society Simon Wallwork said:
“ The Trustees, management, staff and volunteers of the Arkwright Society at Cromford Mills, would like to express their thanks to DCMS, National Lottery Fund and Sarah Dines MP for the significant support received via the Culture Recovery Fund over the past year. The funding support has enabled the Society to not only survive the substantial loss of income experienced over the COVID lockdown period, but use the time productively to improve visitor facilities and services. This will enable a stronger recovery post lockdown, retain local jobs, whilst ensuring the Society’s future is secure in this important anniversary year for Cromford Mills and the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage site.”
Oliver Dowden, Culture Secretary, said:
“Our record breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they've ever faced.
“Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors - helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in the better times ahead.”
