Penrith Town Council are ‘firmly committed’ to supporting cultural events after deciding to not ask for grant back off Eden Arts.

Following its meeting of Full Council on Monday, January 26, Penrith Town Council has resolved that the £5,000 Signature Events Grant provided to Eden Arts for the 2025 Winter Droving will remain in place.

The Council is satisfied that Eden Arts decision to cancel the event was made responsibly acting on the advice of an independent health and safety organisation.

A Spokesperson for Penrith Town Council said: “Eden Arts acted properly and in good faith in response to independent health and safety advice.

“Our decision not to reclaim the grant recognises those sunk costs and backs the potential return of the Winter Droving in 2026.

“We remain firmly committed to supporting high-quality cultural events that bring people into Penrith, boost our local economy, and celebrate our town.”

Eden Arts has informed the Council that the £5,000 grant was spent on legitimate pre-event costs directly related to planned delivery that included planning, safety and supplier preparations, and that these monies cannot be recovered.

Adrian Lochhead, Eden Arts Director said:
“We are grateful for the Council’s continued support and understanding.

“While the decision to cancel the 2025 Winter Droving was incredibly difficult, it was made with public safety firmly in mind.

“The Council’s recognition of the unavoidable costs already incurred enables us to look ahead with renewed confidence.”

By not seeking repayment, the Council hopes that the £5,000 supports the viability of the Winter Droving returning in 2026, strengthening the event’s financial position and enabling planning to commence earlier and more confidently.