A BARNSLEY MP has welcomed government funding allocated to restoring ‘national pride’ across the UK.

Stephanie Peacock, who represents Barnsley South, hailed plans to invest £1.5bn to save more than 1,000 cherished arts venues, museums, libraries and heritage buildings from closure.

The move will fix urgent capital needs and open up access to culture for everyone, everywhere.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to affect families across Britain, funding for treasured cultural venues will ensure vital, affordable and welcoming spaces are available for communities to come together and celebrate what makes their local area special.

This cash boost will help restore national pride in community assets, bring people together and support no or low-cost options for days out as part of the government’s drive to support families, according to the MP.

More than £100m is earmarked for local museums struggling with maintenance and running costs, benefiting up to 200 sites nationwide.

Stephanie said: “At a time when communities have been underfunded and neglected, our arts, museums, libraries and heritage buildings are what hold us together.

“They aren’t just buildings, they are the heart of our towns and cities, places where young people can dream, families can gather and communities can thrive.

“This investment will keep the doors open, protect thousands of jobs, and ensure that everyone, everywhere can access culture, history and creativity.

“After a decade of Tory cuts, this is about rebuilding pride in our communities and unlocking opportunities that have been denied for far too long.

“Here in Barnsley, this funding is welcome news for our local cultural venues and the communities that rely on them.

“It will help ensure that arts, heritage and libraries continue to be part of everyday life for families, young people, and neighbours across the area, no matter their background.”

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added: “At a time when forces seek to divide us, arts, culture and heritage are what bind us together.

“Our local cultural institutions aren’t just buildings, they’re part of who we are as a nation, they help tell our national story and provide unique opportunities for young people to pursue their dreams.

“This funding will keep the doors open and the lights on at thousands of arts organisations, museums, libraries and heritage buildings that might otherwise have been at real risk of closing.

“It will unlock opportunities for millions of people who have been shut out for far too long.

“That is the Britain we are rebuilding.”