Edinburgh East and Musselburgh candidate in the General Election, Amanda Grimm, has backed the cultural venue Summerhall, which she says is at risk of being lost from the capital’s arts scene.
Delivering the opening speech at the Scottish Greens’ manifesto launch which took place at the venue, Ms Grimm drew attention to the need for more funding for culture and community hubs like Summerhall.
The building was put up for sale last month by the owners. More than 14,000 people have signed a petition calling for the venue to be retained as a cultural hub.
Speaking at Summerhall, Ms Grimm said: “We are in an amazing venue which hosts galleries, artist studios, music, cinema, theatre and community space.
“I used to work in the arts and festivals in Edinburgh, and have many happy memories based here at Summerhall. But its future is at risk and it’s up for sale.
“If elected I will do everything in my power to increase funding for culture and communities, and to keep Summerhall open.”
Edinburgh has lost a number of small music venues over the last few years, and in 2022 the Filmhouse independent cinema collapsed into administration, losing 100 jobs (although it will now reopen this autumn after work by former employees to ensure its future).
The Scottish Greens propose a £1 ‘stadium tax’ on each ticket at the biggest gigs like Taylor Swift’s shows at Murrayfield, which would net £1 million a year to help keep smaller venues open.
