In response to budget cuts, Hackney Council has reduced funding for its annual carnival, which has been a tradition since the 1970s. The council's culture chief, Cllr Chris Kennedy, cited the need to prioritize frontline services, diminishing the financial commitment needed for the event. Previously annual, the carnival's frequency is now in question, with the council reallocating previous funding sources like the neighbourhood community interest levy for essential services. Local arts groups warn that the funding cuts could have severe implications on community engagement and the local economy, which benefited significantly from last year's carnival.
The council has made it clear that funding for the carnival has severely diminished, leading to doubts about future events due to ongoing budget constraints.
Council culture chief Cllr Chris Kennedy stated: "We sadly cannot commit the significant investment the event requires, especially with vital services being severely stretched."
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