Arts Council England has granted £680,000 to The Bluecoat as part of its Government-funded Capital Investment Programme. The Grade I listed arts establishment will use the capital investment to revamp and redesign its first floor café/bar, The Bistro, into a bigger, publicly accessible space for events and performances, along with a sound and lighting system to boost visitor numbers and become more financially viable. The funding supports Arts Council England’s aim to ensure architecture is in place across the country to promote creative activity in communities. The Bluecoat’s CEO, Mary Cloake, said the investment is “transformative” and that the enhanced facility will enable it to put on an even wider range of activities and reach more visitors.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, stated that The Bluecoat is a “bedrock of culture” in Liverpool, and the financial input will enable the arts venue to be even more sustainable going forward. Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, added that the investment will enable cultural organisations across the country to flourish and will increase the range of opportunities for the public. Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Minister for Arts, Heritage and Libraries, stated that the government’s plan is to make sure that cultural venues across the country are more accessible to everyone who wants to experience them.
The Bluecoat has been described as the oldest centre of the arts in England, and is one of a select group of Grade I-listed buildings in the city. Managing to retain its original exterior architecture while continuing to grow and adapt, it now attracts visitors from all over the world who want to experience its diverse exhibitions, events and performances. The investment from Arts Council England will mean that The Bluecoat can offer another level of experience to its loyal and growing visitor base
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