UPDATE: Torridge District Council has just announced a renewed funding commitment of £895,000 to support The Burton at Bideford art gallery and museum over the next five years. This significant investment aims to bolster one of the south west’s leading cultural venues, which welcomed 162,000 visitors last year alone.
During a community and resources committee meeting held on November 17, 2023, council members agreed nearly unanimously to allocate £179,000 annually to The Burton, increasing support from the previous £140,000 funding established in 2020. This decision reflects the rising operational costs and the gallery’s vital role in the community amidst challenging funding landscapes.
The Burton at Bideford, recognized as one of only 12 National Portfolio Organisations in the region, has transformed since it became an independent charity in 2016. Previously costing the council approximately £315,000 a year to run, the gallery has embraced a model that allows it to thrive creatively while also contributing significantly to the local economy. Councillors noted that for every £1 invested by Torridge, the gallery generates an impressive £4.
Director Harriet Cooper highlighted the gallery’s accomplishments, which include hosting nearly 60 exhibitions and delivering over 450 workshops since 2021. The venue has also engaged with 3,700 school children and 6,000 families, establishing itself as a community hub for creativity and well-being. “The contribution from the council is the minimum required to keep the organization thriving,” Cooper emphasized.
The council plans to revisit the funding arrangement after three years to assess potential inflationary adjustments. Despite challenges such as limited space—where only 30 percent of the collection can be displayed at any given time—and receiving the lowest Arts Council funding among North Devon’s National Portfolio Organizations, councillors believe The Burton is “punching above its weight.”
“I cannot tell you how strongly I feel about that,” said Councillor Lauren Bright, advocating for the gallery’s free admission policy. “Families need to feel they can walk in without barriers and experience everything that’s on offer.”
In an effort to expand its reach, The Burton plans to implement initiatives like the Burton Art Box, which will bring art to local communities through outreach workshops. While the gallery has successfully introduced entrepreneurial activities and a craft shop, the competition for external funding remains fierce, underscoring the importance of the council’s financial support.
As the arts venue continues to develop, the feasibility of constructing an additional building nearby is also under consideration, aiming to further enhance its capacity and offerings. The future of The Burton at Bideford looks promising, but immediate support from the council remains crucial as it navigates the challenges of the arts funding landscape.
Next Steps: Stay tuned for updates on how the funding will be utilized and the impact on community engagement as The Burton at Bideford continues to thrive.
