Merton Council, in partnership with the New Wimbledon Theatre and the Wimbledon Civic Theatre Trust, were highly commended at the Municipal Journal Achievement Awards after being shortlisted for the prestigious Public Private Partnership Achievement of the Year.

Commended for their joint efforts in ‘Raising Aspiration Through The Arts project, this initiative brings together local people, organisations and groups who combine facilities, expertise and enthusiasm for the arts to improve cultural opportunities within the borough. This included the introduction of ‘Community lets’ at New Wimbledon Theatre, which allows community groups to use the theatre at affordable prices. The provision of outreach education programmes funded through Wimbledon Civic Theatre Trust seeking to empower local young people and contribute towards raising their aspirations through the arts’.

Winners Impact Partnership and Link4Life, Rochdale was announced at the gala awards night at the Hilton Hotel, London Park Lane on Thursday 24 June and was presented with an award by TV presenter, Michael Portillo.

Merton Council’s cabinet member for community and culture, Cllr Martin Whelton said, “It was wonderful news to be shortlisted but amazing news to be highly commended nationally for a Public Private Partnership award. Merton’s submission exemplified how the arts community are working together with the council to widen and improve cultural opportunities for residents. I’d like to congratulate and thank all of our staff and partners in being recognised for this tremendous achievement.”