FUNDING for the arts has been left out of this year’s Royal Borough draft budget.

Maidenhead arts centre, Norden Farm, has expressed concern after the council’s 2022/23 budget consultation doesn’t include support for the arts sector.

This also affects Windsor’s arts space, The Old Court.

Now Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) has asked residents to take part in a survey on the consultation and share their views on it.

Jane Corry, chief executive and artistic director of Norden Farm, said: “If the public have an opinion on this, then this is their chance to have their voices heard.

“We know that it’s been a really tough time for everyone and that finances are stretched in all areas but having already absorbed a 45% cut in core funding to have the rest taken away as well, would be extremely hard for the charity to manage.”

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A council spokesperson said the budget consultation is currently ongoing.

They said: “The council has historically supported both Norden Farm and Old Court with annual grants, and provided £80,000 to Norden Farm this financial year, a significant support package in the context of the pandemic.

“Due to tight budgetary constraints, it was made clear that last year both venues would receive reduced grants and in 2022/23 grant funding would cease.”

The spokesperson added this decision was made by Full Council last February, as part of the budget-setting process.

They said: “Meetings have been held with Norden Farm and Old Court to discuss their business plans and future operating model and the council will continue to work with the venues to explore options to secure their future viability.”

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The council explained all feedback will be considered before any final decisions are made when the budget is debated at Full Council next month.

Feedback should be given by Monday, January 31.

To take part, visit: https://rbwmtogether.rbwm.gov.uk/budget-consultation