Purpose

To approve the acceptance of a further extension grant from Arts Council England (ACE) for the financial year 2027–28 in support of the continued development and delivery of Oldham’s cultural programme, community engagement activities, and the development of the new theatre operating
model.

This delegated decision is made under the authority granted by Cabinet on 23 March 2026 within the report ‘Arts Council Investment into Oldham’s Cultural Programming and Venue Development Extension Grant’, which delegated authority to the Deputy Chief Executive to accept a further one
year extension for 2027–28, should this be offered by Arts Council England.

Decision

RESOLVED - That:
Accept the funding.
Acceptance of the funding enables the continuation of cultural programming, community engagement, audience development, talent development and progress towards delivery of the new
theatre project.

Reasons for the decision

Option 1 - Accept the funding.
Acceptance of the funding enables the continuation of cultural programming, community engagement, audience development, talent development and progress towards delivery of the new
theatre project

Option 2 - Declining the funding would significantly reduce the Council's ability to deliver cultural activities, impact support for the Coliseum and the new theatre development programme, and potentially affect future eligibility for Arts Council England investment.

Alternative options considered

Option 2 - Declining the funding would significantly reduce the Council's ability to deliver cultural activities, impact support for the Coliseum and the new theatre development programme, and potentially affect future eligibility for Arts Council England investment.