Culture Co-op secures £1 million to give Rochdale residents more say over arts and creativity

Tuesday, 21 October 2025 17:09

By David Murphy

Rochdale’s Culture Co-op has been awarded £1 million to put local people at the heart of cultural decision-making, as part of a £42 million national programme run by Arts Council England.

Culture Co-op is one of 45 projects across the country to receive funding through the Creative People and Places scheme, which supports areas where participation in arts and culture is traditionally low. The new funding will run from 2026 to 2029, continuing the group’s mission to let local residents define what culture looks like in their communities.

Based on Rochdale’s co-operative legacy, the Culture Co-op has involved local people, many of whom are usually excluded from such roles, as ‘Cultural Pioneers’. These residents have helped shape everything from neighbourhood festivals and creative hubs in housing estates to new LGBTQIA+ programmes for the borough.

Director Greg Bond said the new funding was a result of “dedication and collaboration” across sectors, including artists, residents, and public bodies. “We’re focused on delivering meaningful impact across the borough,” he said. “Everyone, no matter their background, should be able to help shape Rochdale’s cultural future.”

The scheme is funded by Arts Council England using money raised by National Lottery players. Since launching over a decade ago, the CPP programme has helped people in towns and cities across England access art and cultural events tailored to local needs.

Rebecca Ball, Area Director North for Arts Council England, said: “The Creative People and Places programme empowers our communities across the North to design and shape the cultural offer on their doorstep. I can’t wait to see how this investment will continue to inspire and engage.”

Culture Co-op is a partnership that includes Action Together, Your Trust, Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Development Agency, Public Health, Rochdale Borough Housing, and The Co-op Group.