A major new plan is launched to boost grassroots music in Wigan

Wigan has become the first local authority in Greater Manchester to develop a dedicated grassroots music plan, setting out a long-term vision to strengthen the borough’s thriving music scene, at a time when grassroots music venues and artists are facing growing challenges across the UK

The Wigan Grassroots Music Plan, created by grassroots venue The Snug in Atherton, and commissioned by Wigan Council, has been developed following one of the most extensive consultations ever undertaken into the borough’s music sector.

The plan aligns with Wigan borough’s wider cultural strategy, The Fire Within, supporting long-term ambitions around creativity, placemaking, community participation and cultural growth.

Developed using public surveys, consultations and stakeholder discussions, the plan integrates research with insights from Wigan’s thriving grassroots music community.

The plan identifies four strategic areas, which are crucial for fostering a robust music ecosystem:

·       Access, Audience & Visibility

·       Skills, Talent & Progression

·       Spaces & Infrastructure

·       Economic Sustainability & Funding

The recommendations aim to build a more connected and sustainable grassroots music landscape over the next five years.

The launch comes at a significant time for the sector nationally, with increasing recognition from government, local authorities and industry organisations of the importance of grassroots music venues and artist development, in supporting the success of the UK music industry.

The announcement comes just one week after The Lottery Winner’s landmark hometown show at Leigh Sports Village – which is a reminder of the journey local artists can make from grassroots stages to major headline performances.

Supporting the next generation of artists requires sustained investment & support in the venues, spaces and providing opportunities where those journeys can begin.

Ben Morgan, lead researcher and coordinator of the Wigan Grassroots Music Plan said:

“The plan is about recognising the talent and value that already exists in Wigans vibrant grassroots community – and creating a clearer long-term vision for how it can grow sustainably.

Throughout the process, one thing became really clear – Wigan doesn’t lack talent, creativity or passion. What’s missing is connection, visibility and long-term coordination across the sector.

There’s already incredible work happening across the borough, whether that’s through independent venues, artists, promoters or community lead projects. We want to build on that through the plan, and celebrate the amazing local talent that Wigan has to offer.”

Derri Burdon, Chair, Wigan Cultural Partnership says: “The Grassroots Music Plan comes at a pivotal moment for Wigan. Through The Fire Within: The Forge, the borough has already set out a bold and deeply rooted cultural strategy, one that recognises the power of creativity to shape places, connect communities and unlock opportunity.

This plan complements and strengthens that ambition. It listens carefully to the voices of artists, venues, educators, young people and audiences. It recognises the barriers that can hold grassroots music back, from visibility and transport to progression and sustainability. Most importantly, it sets out a clear, practical way forward.

At its heart, this is about connection. Connecting people to opportunities. Connecting venues to audiences. Connecting local talent to meaningful pathways. It is about nurturing a music ecosystem that is visible, valued and built to flourish.

That is why this plan matters so much. It enriches the bigger cultural picture for Wigan and helps turn the energy of The Fire Within into lasting opportunity for musicians, communities and audiences across the borough.”

Rachael McEntee, founder of The Snug in Atherton, and member of the Greater Manchester Music Commission, said:

“It’s been brilliant speaking to people from right across Wigan Borough throughout this process. Those conversations have highlighted both the passion that already exists within our music community and the opportunities that can be created when people work together.

With the wider Greater Manchester Music Plan also being developed, this is an exciting opportunity for Wigan to play a leading role in shaping the future of grassroots music across the region.”