The Blackwood Miners’ Institute, a historic and beloved cultural hub in Caerphilly, has been safeguarded thanks to a £210,000 funding boost from the Welsh Government. This support, provided through the Arts Council of Wales’ Resilience Fund, ensures the venue can remain open while plans for its long-term future are developed.

Having grown up just ten minutes from Blackwood Miners’ Institute, I’ve seen first-hand the profound impact this venue has on our community. For decades, it has stood as a cultural beacon and the heart of arts in the Rhymney and Gwent Valleys. It’s where I had my very first theatrical performance, and I’ve performed there several times since. I’ve watched friends rehearse their dance routines and witnessed the joy and creativity it inspires in so many. To see this space remain open is truly heartening—it’s vital that it continues to serve our community and enrich lives for years to come.

The funding comes as a huge relief after the Institute faced an uncertain future, following discussions by Caerphilly County Borough Council about potentially mothballing the site. Now, with this £210,000 lifeline, the Institute can continue serving as a vital centre for arts and culture in the area.

Minister for Culture Jack Sargeant visited the Blackwood Miners’ Institute on Thursday 13 March to witness how this funding will sustain the venue in the months ahead. Reflecting on the challenges facing cultural spaces, he commented, "Though I recognise the challenges faced by our museums, theatres and cultural spaces, this funding provides a real opportunity to move towards a more secure, sustainable footing."

This grant is part of a wider £3.6 million Resilience Fund, supporting 60 arts organisations across Wales. It aligns with the Welsh Government’s 2025 Budget, which includes an 8.5% increase in funding for the culture sector and an additional £18.4 million in capital spending—a testament to the ongoing commitment to preserve and enhance cultural and heritage assets.

Dr Bethan Ryland, Arts Development Officer for Caerphilly County Borough Council and Blackwood Miners’ Institute, highlighted the significance of this funding: "The funding has been a vital support for Blackwood Miners, benefiting both the staff and the wider community. Arts and culture play a crucial role in enhancing people’s lives and well-being, and BMI serves as a historic cultural hub, making a significant impact. Continued investment is essential for ensuring the growth and sustainability of arts and culture for future generations."

Councillor Jamie Pritchard, Deputy Leader of Caerphilly Council, echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the collaborative effort to secure a brighter future for the venue. "We have been working together to ensure a bright future is secured for the BMI. We thank the Minister for his visit, and for the opportunity to talk about this iconic venue," he said.

Blackwood Miners’ Institute has long been at the heart of cultural life in the area, offering theatre, music, and events that bring people together. Its significance is deeply felt by the community, as it continues to shape and inspire lives across generations.

As echoed in the Nation Cymru report, the Welsh Government’s commitment to the arts underscores their value—not only as a means of entertainment but as a cornerstone of community well-being and cultural identity. For those of us with deep connections to venues like Blackwood Miners’ Institute, their continued existence means so much more—it’s about preserving a shared heritage and creating opportunities for future generations to experience the transformative power of the arts.

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