History left repeating itself as Yeadon Town Hall loses out on vital funding

Yeadon Town Hall has failed in its attempt to win a slice of cash from the Culture Recovery Fund (CRF), a pot of funding administered by Arts Council England with a focus on supporting cultural organisations hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is the second time the Aireborough landmark has lost out on funding from the CRF in six months.

The news has left CEO Jamie Hudson and his team devastated as well as confused and frustrated that the 140-year-old building on High Street in the town has been overlooked. The grant would have predominantly gone towards funding to improve the building’s facilities - directly improving the community’s access to quality community services.

Jamie said: “I believe that the Arts Council have a moral duty to help as many cultural organisations as possible. The public’s money is precious, and in many cases we feel the funds have been unfairly administered.

"As always, the team will continue to fight for the Town Hall’s survival with a smile knowing the local community will provide the support and encouragement we need to go on.”

Jamie and the Yeadon Town Hall team took over management of the Grade II listed building in 2019. During that it has managed to steer the community centre through a pandemic all whilst continuing to deliver a major restoration project with help from Leeds City Council.

The Town Hall, the third largest theatre in Leeds by capacity, has remained closed for the majority of last year and into 2021 with income falling by around 95 per cent. It has survived thanks to small emergency grants, limited reopening opportunities and the support of the local community and organisations who fundraised to ensure the building’s survival. Vital help and support has also been provided by Leeds City Council.

Coun Ryk Downes (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) said: “It’s extremely disappointing to see Yeadon Town Hall has not been granted this vital funding. The Town Hall is all about supporting the community and providing a valuable service within the local area.

"At a time when community venues need all the help they can get to survive, it’s inexcusable that the Town Hall has been overlooked.”

For more information about Yeadon Town Hall, its community activities and restoration project visit the website: yeadontownhall.co.uk****************************

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