The town of Newhaven is set to benefit once again from funding provided by the Newhaven Enterprise Zone (NEZ) to support its creative events programme, marking the fourth consecutive year of financial backing. This funding is aimed at fostering a vibrant cultural scene in the town and supporting local artists and community initiatives.
The BN9 creative events programme plans to deliver a diverse range of artistic engagements throughout the year. One of the main highlights will be an exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Asbestos, titled "New Pop Max," which will take place at the Marine Workshops from 19 April to 7 June. This exhibition is expected to feature a striking and colourful collection of inflatables and paintings.
Other scheduled events include interactive artworks by Leap Then Look, set to be showcased at The Sidings during August and September, as well as the Haven Young Creatives’ Harbour Lights procession. These events underscore the programme's commitment to offering accessible, community-focused cultural experiences.
Corinne Day, programme director at NEZ, spoke about the initiative to The Argus, stating: "The programme of events organised this year is going to build on our success of positioning Newhaven as a hub for grassroots creative events. The funding also supports the work of our local artists and makers, who have made their home in the town." She added, "Our creative programme continues to put Newhaven on the map and helps to make it a great place to live, work and visit."
The programme has proved successful in attracting thousands of visitors in previous years, contributing positively to the local economy and raising Newhaven’s profile as a centre for arts and culture. Venues such as the BN9 Studio, the Atrium in the Marine Workshops, and The Sidings on the riverside play host to high-profile exhibitions and free community events.
In addition to event funding, NEZ supports the BN9 Arts Growth Grants, which provide financial assistance to local community organisations, further enhancing grassroots creative activities within the town.
Nick Stockman, Newhaven creative producer at Towner Eastbourne, commented to The Argus: "Newhaven Enterprise Zone has shown unwavering support for the town’s creative community over the last six years. With this funding for 2025, the town will continue to be an ever more popular place to visit, live and work in. Creativity and events are the pulse by which the town progresses, and it’s great that Corinne Day and her team believe in the case for creative placemaking so passionately and ardently."
The NEZ funding will also cover the management of gallery spaces within the Marine Workshops, which are planned to host a variety of community creative events throughout the year. This ongoing support aims to ensure that Newhaven maintains a vibrant cultural landscape, with opportunities for both residents and visitors to engage with a broad spectrum of artistic expressions.
Source: Noah Wire Services