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Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board, responds to Arts Council England’s announcement to provide £160 million for the cultural sector.

“Councils are uniquely placed to build on community strengths in partnership with Arts Council England, and the greatest impact can be achieved through locally-led culture facilities, including museums, libraries and arts organisations."

Despite rising demand for services and central government funding reductions, councils continue to be the biggest investors in culture, bringing communities across the country together.

The Local Government Association has today published seven original articles from leading policy thinkers exploring the future of local publicly funded cultural services and devolution.

“We are delighted to see the Government prioritising the creative industries, one of the fastest growing sections of our economy."

Leisure centres could fall into a state of disrepair and even be forced to close without urgent new investment from government, councils warn today.

“It is positive to see today’s announcement of a new bill to introduce an independent regulator for professional clubs in the English football pyramid."

Investment in sport and leisure facilities, from financial support, to strategic partnership working between central and local government and community organisations is essential in increasing the development of young people, preparing them with vital life skills and healthy habits.

“We are pleased to see culture, heritage and sport recognised for their impact in communities and be placed among the list of priorities in the white paper. As well as making a fundamental contribution to pride of place, they support local literacy and skills, and boost wellbeing, productivity and innovation."

Culture, heritage and creativity are essential to our future national prosperity, levelling up and recovery from crisis, a new LGA report finds.