A new initiative which aims to promote year-round tourism in Newquay is inviting grant funding bids to deliver cultural events, workshops and activities. 

Experience Newquay is looking for applications from a range of cultural organisations, businesses and individuals to creatively interpret the brief, which also aims to produce permanent installations in the town centre. 

The Cultural Commissions programme was officially launched at a drop-in event at the Mount Wise Centre.  

The project team was joined by more than 40 people representing a mix of businesses and organisations for a collaborative session which helped to shape the programme. 

Applications are encouraged to explore ways to create a low season visitor offer that celebrates the culture and identity of the town. There are grants available of up to £7,500 for cultural activities including workshops, exhibitions, events and performances with an element that has a lasting legacy.  

There is a grant of up to £30,000 on offer for permanent installations in the town centre. This could be murals, sculptures, lighting, creative play, street furniture or something else. The bids deadline is December 3. 

The overall initiative, which is a two-year project, has four key areas: training and support, curation of a cultural offer, marketing and evaluation of impacts.  

The project is being funded with a £365,426 investment from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, which is managed by Cornwall Council and funded by the Government though the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

It is part of Good Growth’s Town, Rural and Coastal High Street Development and Skills Programme. 

The aim is to support local enterprises through regenerating town centres and neighbourhood shopping areas. 

Louis Gardner, Newquay Central’s Cornwall Councillor and the cabinet portfolio holder for economy, said: “Knowing the creative place that Newquay is, we’re excited to see the proposals, which will be reviewed by a panel made up of Newquay representatives.” 

• To apply for Cultural Commissions funds, visit feastcornwall.org