“I demanded that we keep artsdepot’s doors open.”
before you carry on reading…
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Artsdepot is the beating heart of Barnet’s cultural offer. One of my first visits as MP for Finchley and Golders Green was to the venue. From family friendly samba music to pole dancing competitions, the visit was like no other.
Arts and culture is much more than a weekend activity. It’s what creates a cohesive community – enriching and educating people from an array of backgrounds – giving us the cultural ties that can hold when times are tough.
That is why, when the depot was facing closure, I acted. I wrote to the then Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Angela Rayner, relaying my concerns over the future of the venue’s lease – demanding that we keep its doors open. I am pleased to say that after the efforts of my team, Monique, her team and the Council the lease has been secured. With a 50 year peppercorn rent, the future of the artsdepot is secure – meaning Monique and the team can get planning a characteristically fantastic programme.
Nationally, this Government has put culture at the heart of community renewal – expanding local arts access, boosting creative education, and opening pathways for young people into music, film, and design. From museum outreach to a National Music Education Network, it’s using culture to unite communities and create opportunity for every generation.