Start Thurrock awarded £1M in Arts Council England’s largest Creative People & Places Portfolio 2026-29

START THURROCK has been awarded £1,000,000 as part of Arts Council England’s largest ever Creative People and Places (CPP) Portfolio, which sees £42 million invested in 45 programmes from 2026–29, to deliver more grassroots-led cultural experiences in areas across England where involvement in arts and culture is below the national average. 

Launched in 2023, Start Thurrock is all about celebrating the people and places that make the borough unique. Co-created with local residents, the programme aims to bring Thurrock’s towns together, each contributing something special to a shared story. By 2029, Start Thurrock will support 86,000 cultural experiences, all shaped and led by the community. They’ll work across six towns to co-create a cultural offer that reflects shared values, builds pride and helps shift perceptions of Thurrock.  

CPPs bring together community, grassroots and cultural organisations as partners to take the lead in choosing, creating and taking part in creative and cultural activities. CPPs are empowering local people to pursue the art they want, where they live. 

This funding is made possible thanks to National Lottery players. Every National Lottery ticket purchased generates money for good causes and enables people in villages, towns, and cities up and down the country to get access to cultural experiences where they live.  

Start Thurrock directors Katie Beadle and Roxie Curry said:  

“We are absolutely thrilled to have secured further Arts Council England funding for Start Thurrock, which is all about celebrating the people and places that make our borough unique. When we launched Start Thurrock, we wanted to be a catalyst for change – championing positive transformation, showcasing the brilliant collaborative spirit of our community and celebrating the incredible contributions of residents and creatives. This funding truly enables us to bring our vision to life and make a real difference.” 

Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “Start Thurrock shows what’s possible when creativity is rooted in community. By placing decision-making in the hands of local residents, it’s not just transforming cultural engagement; it’s reshaping how people see themselves and their towns. We are proud to support it through Creative People and Places.” 

We can’t wait to work with all our communities on plans for 2026-2029!