A DIRECTOR of a Windsor arts space “relieved” funding has been maintained after council abandons plans.

Campaigners sighed with relief after the leader of the Royal Borough Council announced Maidenhead’s Norden Farm and Windsor’s The Old Court will receive a £140,000 funding package this year.

Concerns were raised when the 2022/23 budget consultation revealed both arts spaces would receive nothing from the council, which prompted a petition that was signed by almost 5,000 people to be set up demanding the local authority to scrap this idea.

The Old Court will receive £25,000 whereas Norden Farm is set to get £115,000.

Martin Denny, director at The Old Court, said it was “great news” to get funds this year when they were expecting nothing. He also paid tribute those who lent their support throughout the budget consultation process and to the council who listened to the responses.

READ MORE: Platinum Jubilee: Windsor Boys School host Schools Week launch

He said: “We will continue to deliver within our means, and would encourage residents to come to the cinema, to come to events, and to use The Old Court, as their community arts centre. This, with funding, will enable us to carry on. We can always do more, and should funding, or increased income, from any source be forthcoming we will use this to provide more cultural activity, and more opportunities. For now, we are relieved that there is funding from RBWM which will make this year, coming on the back of the last two extraordinary years, a great deal easier, and we approach this with renewed enthusiasm and drive.

Adam Afriyie, Windsor’s MP also welcomed the decision, saying: “I am delighted that our hard working local councillors were able to make the savings needed to secure new funding for arts. The Old Court is a fantastic asset to locals and visitors alike.”

READ MORE: Slough pub built in 1700s could be converted into flats

However, questions have been raised why The Old Court is receiving significantly less than its Maidenhead counterpart from the council.

A council spokesperson said: “These two organisations have always had different levels of council funding as they are operated on different scales and on different models. That’s reflected in the budget proposals for 2022/23.”