Arts centre 'pauses' work amid funding shortfall

Bernie Grant Arts Centre is facing "financial and structural pressures"

A north London arts centre is being forced to "step back" from some of its activities amid a funding shortfall.

Bernie Grant Arts Centre in Tottenham Green will continue to deliver on priority projects and existing programme commitments but is pausing new hires and venue activity. It is consulting patrons on its future, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The centre's chief executive, Azieb Pool, appealed for donations amid what she described as "financial and structural pressures".

"We're hitting pause on some of our work – not because we want to, but because we have to," she said.

"Like many in the arts, we've been under serious financial pressure, and it's time to take a step back so we can build something more sustainable for the future."

'Stabilise, reassess, and rebuild'

The multi-arts centre is named after former Tottenham MP Bernie Grant, one of Britain's first black MPs.

Geoffrey Williams, chair of the board of trustees, said the centre "was not going anywhere" and urged people to "buy a ticket, make a donation, or share your thoughts through our survey".

He said: "We have taken this step as part of a necessary strategic transformation. It is a moment to stabilise, reassess, and rebuild a stronger, more resilient Bernie Grant Arts Centre.

"Our goal is to ensure that this vital space continues to serve the community in the best possible way."

Emily Arkell, Haringey Council's cabinet member for culture and leisure, said the council was "deeply saddened" and was working closely with the centre.

Ms Arkell added that financial challenges were being experienced by the arts and culture sector across the country.

"We have been proactive in offering support and are pleased that the trustees have agreed to take this up," she said. "We will continue to advise, support and help the trustees through their reset period."

Ms Pool added that pressure on black artists and black-led organisations was "real and growing".

She said: "We're still delivering key projects, working with our community, and staying true to our mission."