Coliseum’s funds fight

OLDHAM Coliseum could lose a vital local authority grant after a spending review of a £3.4million fund for not-for-profit organisations.

The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) handed a £102,700 revenue grant to the theatre this year — but this could be reduced or withdrawn following the release of details of a new scheme. Applicants across the 10 local authorities have now been asked to reapply for funding, which would last three years.

Out of the 38 organisations currently benefiting from funding, the Fairbottom Street theatre is receiving the 10th-highest amount.

Executive director David Martin believes the theatre has a “strong case”. The fund, known as the section 48 scheme, asks organisations like arts groups and charities to apply for funding.

Under the new rules, organisations will have to detail their contributions to Greater Manchester life locally, nationally and globally, improving the skills and employability of residents and contributing to communities.

“It is terribly easy to to worry about something that hasn’t happened,” said Mr Martin. “We will have to tighten our belts if we don’t get the funding. We have to get our application in before the deadline on November 10, and I believe we match a lot of the criteria.

“We have not been told if funding will be bigger, the same or smaller, but it is more than likely it won’t be bigger. But this in the economic climate we live in.”

The AGMA Grants Unit will evaluate the theatre application, which will be followed by a detailed consultation period. Three-year funding will start next April, subject to annual review.

AGMA vice-chairman Sir Richard Leese said: “In the current economic climate, it is even more important that grants help to promote the economic growth of the area.”