Babylon Arts is now permanently closed and the charity has ceased activity

In September 2024, the trustees of Babylon Arts informed key stakeholders of the organisation's ongoing financial challenges. Since then, numerous efforts have been made to secure sustainable funding through negotiations with local authorities and other organisations. Despite clear communication that core funding was urgently needed by the end of February 2025, these efforts have not resulted in the necessary support, leaving the trustees with no choice but to close the gallery and cease all of the charity's operations.

This decision comes amid an increasingly challenging funding landscape for cultural venues, which have been grappling with rising operational costs, the escalating cost of living, and reduced public sector support. The significant hikes in operational costs, from energy bills to staffing and venue maintenance, have compounded these challenges, placing immense pressure on organisations like Babylon Arts to maintain their services.

Despite our best efforts to adapt to these economic pressures, it has become impossible to continue without the vital funding that was not forthcoming.