Luton’s creative scene has been given a major boost after Revoluton Arts was awarded £1 million from Arts Council England to continue its grassroots work in the town from 2026 to 2029.
Revoluton Arts said the new funding will help build “lasting cultural confidence and a strong legacy for the future”, ensuring everyone in Luton has the chance to take part in shaping the town’s creative identity.
The investment is part of the national Creative People and Places (CPP) programme, which aims to put culture in the hands of local communities and increase participation in the arts in areas where engagement is below the national average. Revoluton Arts – who have recently been behind the Luton Henge and Rave New World (pictured above) projects – will use the funding to deliver more locally led cultural projects and events that celebrate Luton’s diversity and energy.
The CPP programme has invested nearly £162 million nationally since it began in 2012, leading to more than 15,000 creative activities and 19 million engagements across England. It is designed to help residents, grassroots groups and cultural organisations decide what creativity looks like where they live.
Revoluton Arts has led Luton’s CPP programme since its inception, championing inclusive and accessible arts experiences that are deeply rooted in local life. Over the next three years, it plans to co-create work with residents ranging from large town centre spectacles to smaller neighbourhood commissions.
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!”
Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director at 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.”
Arts Council England Chief Executive Darren Henley 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.”
