Revoluton Arts Awarded £1M as Arts Council England Creative People and Places (2026-29) Portfolio Announced.
We’re thrilled to share that Arts Council England has announced a £1 million investment in Luton through the Creative People and Places (CPP) programme, supporting our work at Revoluton Arts from 2026–29. This funding will help us deliver more grassroots-led cultural experiences across Luton — further igniting the creative ambition of our super-diverse town — in an area where engagement in arts and culture is below the national average.
This new Creative People and Places (2026–29) Portfolio represents nearly £162 million invested nationally since 2012, building on over 15,000 creative activities and 19 million engagements across England. The CPP programme is designed to empower local people to lead the cultural life of their communities, bringing residents, grassroots groups and cultural organisations together to decide what creativity looks like where they live.
At Revoluton Arts, we’re proud to lead Luton’s Creative People and Places programme — one that’s inclusive, accessible and deeply rooted in local life. Over the next three years, we’ll continue to give Lutonians the opportunity to shape, create and lead artistic experiences that reflect the town’s unique energy and diversity. Together, we’ll co-create work that’s tailored to Luton, building lasting cultural confidence and a strong legacy for the future. Activities will range from town centre spectaculars to hyper-local commissions, ensuring everyone has the chance to take part.
Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “Creative People and Places puts local voices at the heart of cultural life. We are proud to support these projects across the East of England, each one rooted in its community and driven by the creativity of its people. Whether it’s tackling social isolation in Tendring, celebrating diversity in Luton, or empowering young leaders in coastal Great Yarmouth, these programmes help communities shape their own cultural futures.”
Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England, said: “This major new investment unlocks the creative power of neighbourhoods across England, giving people the chance to commission new work, to participate in creative acts and to experience the artistic excellence of professional creators, curators and performers. And best of all, it’s all happening right on their own doorsteps.”
Lindsey Pugh, CEO and Creative Director of Revoluton Arts, said: “Investment to Luton through Arts Council England’s Creative People and Places programme is vital to our town. Social activism is in Luton’s DNA. Continued support to deliver Revoluton’s democratised, citizen-led programming is fundamental. Through this, we platform and celebrate Luton’s super-diversity and forward-facing mentality through bold co-created projects, events and commissions. It’s crucial work in contemporary times. We’re excited to continue the work with Lutonians!”
We can’t wait to keep working with and for the people of Luton, championing creativity in every corner of our town.