Lowry gets £8.5m as part of 'art for all' plans

CULTURE VENUES ACROSS REGION TO SHARE IN GOVERNMENT SCHEME

- By BETHAN FINIGHAN [e-mail] @MENnewsdesk

MAJOR cultural venues across Greater Manchester are set for a cash injection as part of a £127.8 million government scheme which aims to improve access to arts, museums and libraries.

The funding, announced as part of the government's Arts Everywhere Fund, will support 130 organisations across the country.

In Greater Manchester, The Lowry in Salford Quays is among the biggest winners, receiving £8.5 million to upgrade its building and improve accessibility.

The venue will use the funding to replace escalators with lifts and create step-free access to galleries.

Visitors can also expect upgraded cafe, retail and conference facilities.