Prime Highlights:
- Sunderland will receive nearly £1 million in funding as it prepares to host Radio 1’s Big Weekend at Herrington Country Park, expected to attract 80,000 music fans.
- The investment will support local arts, masterclasses, and improvements to the park, helping the city host major events and boost the local economy.
Key Facts:
- The total funding for the event is £975,000, with £495,000 contributed by the North East Combined Authority.
- The Big Weekend is expected to generate over £3.5 million for Sunderland and the North East, benefiting businesses and the local economy.
Background:
Sunderland will get almost £1 million as it gets ready to host Radio 1’s Big Weekend this May at Herrington Country Park. About 80,000 music fans are expected to attend, making it a big cultural event for the city.
The funding, provided by the North East Combined Authority and Sunderland City Council, will cover local costs for hosting the festival. It is set to support a range of initiatives, including a week-long fringe festival across the North East, career-focused masterclasses in the arts, and improvements to Herrington Country Park as a venue.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness described the event as “a huge opportunity” for local talent and highlighted the significant economic impact for the region. She noted that the Big Weekend is expected to generate more than £3.5 million for Sunderland and the North East. “This is why we are pleased to support Sunderland in meeting the local cost of bringing this major event to the region,” McGuinness said.
Out of the total £975,000 pledged for the event, her office will contribute £495,000. The investment is also aimed at building on the North East’s growing reputation as a host for major cultural events, following Newcastle’s successful hosting of the Mobo and Mercury Awards in 2025.
McGuinness said the funding will help Herrington Country Park become a venue for future big festivals and events. She added that these events create chances for local businesses, support careers in the arts, and raise the region’s cultural profile.
City leaders and organizers are optimistic that the Big Weekend will bring an exciting experience for residents and visitors, while also helping local businesses and the North East economy. Sunderland is getting ready to host big national events and boost local creativity and business.
The funding also highlights the region’s focus on bringing together fun, community, and economic growth.
Read Also : China’s Manufacturing Returns to Growth, Boosting Economic Optimism
