The Courtyard learned recently that it has been awarded a £210,380 Capital Kickstart grant as part of the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund. The Capital Kickstart grants programme helps cultural organisations cover additional costs to capital projects caused by pandemic-related delays or fundraising shortfalls, such as building works, refurbishments, and large-scale equipment. The Courtyard has recently come to the end of its capital expansion project ‘Transform The Yard’. The extension of the building will strengthen the region’s cultural infrastructure and enable further income generation to support community initiatives and future-proof the Arts Centre. The grant will help The Courtyard complete the project, including fitting out its brand-new shop and Café Bar areas. It will also enable the installation of a new air conditioning unit in the Garrick Room keeping it well ventilated through the pandemic and cool in the summer months.