£3.5 million boost for culture in Banbridge (Levelling Up Fund 2)
The F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio has been awarded £3.5 million from the Levelling Up Fund. Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council will use the funding to expand and upgrade this important cultural facility for more visitors to enjoy.
Gallery upgrades
Since its opening in 2008, the Gallery has hosted state visits, attracted international visitors and given children the opportunity to see world class art.
The Levelling Up Fund award will allow the Gallery to:
- increase the size of the exhibition space to allow more of F.E. McWilliam’s work to be placed on display
- expand the workshop space used for education and training
- improve the capacity of the café, car park, shop and reception area
- enhance the facilities for staff
Margaret Tinsley, Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, said:
F.E. McWilliams work is of great cultural importance and the opportunity to showcase more of it will foster a deeper appreciation for our heritage and artistic legacy.
The new facilities are expected to be open to the public in 2026.
Attracting new visitors to Banbridge
Upgrades to the Gallery will have many benefits to both the venue and the wider area.
These include:
- allowing for more visiting coach trips increasing the potential for more international visitors
- enabling The Gallery to engage with more schools and other education providers
- providing more job opportunities
- increased footfall and spending in local businesses
Find out more about the F.E McWilliam Gallery & Studio
Find out more about Levelling Up