The CCA is temporarily closed, we will be sharing further updates in the coming days

CCA


At this time of reflection, we are sharing responses to some of the questions we've received from the public, our community, and our partners. CCA understands that it is important to communicate with you. This page is one part of that process, and we will continue to update this page.

Why is the CCA currently closed?

The CCA is currently closed to the public while we undertake an important period of internal recovery and planning. Over the past year, the organisation has experienced significant challenges, including financial pressures and difficulties in appointing an Interim CEO and Change Lead to guide our longer-term strategy.

The CCA Board had already agreed that this year would be a time of organisational turnaround. Following recent events, that process has been brought forward and accelerated. The building remains closed so that we can focus our energy on this work and develop a sustainable and inclusive path forward.

We recognise this temporary closure is difficult, and we are working hard to ensure it is not longer than necessary.

What is CCA doing during the closure?

While the building is closed, the CCA Board, leadership and staff team are:

  • Engaging with our funders and key stakeholders on a continued turnaround and recovery plan.
  • Preparing for a phased return for staff and cultural tenants once operational plans are in place.
  • Planning opportunities for staff consultation to help shape CCA’s future direction.
  • Exploring how to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
  • Developing plans to re-open safely and responsibly, in collaboration with our wider community

When will the CCA reopen?

We don’t yet have a confirmed reopening date, but we are working toward a phased return for staff and cultural tenants as soon as it is safe and practical to do so. Updates on reopening will be shared publicly as plans develop.

What is CCA’s position on PACBI?


The CCA Board was unable to reach a consensus on publicly endorsing the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI) at its last board meeting. This is due to the potential legal complexities and implications for a charity to do so. To fulfil its charitable aim, the organisation must remain independent politically. CCA is responsible for maintaining and supporting employment in the arts, including funding programmes of artist development, and must therefore always consider its financial and legal sustainability very carefully.

Does CCA hold any investments in Israel?


CCA does not hold any investment in companies, Israeli or international, that are involved in the violation of Palestinian rights. We also do not have any partnerships with Israeli academic or cultural institutions. We review commercial and programming decisions on a case-by-case basis and recognise the need to develop a formal ethical framework to guide these decisions in future.

What did Art Workers for Palestine Scotland (AW4PS) propose to do in the CCA?


On Monday 23 June Art Workers for Palestine Scotland (AW4PS) announced a week-long programme of events to take place in CCA’s courtyard space. AW4PS included in their notification that CCA would agree not to contact the police or security personnel under any circumstances, which in light of our safeguarding responsibilities and legal duties, we were not able to host. There was no agreement reached, and security, legal, and insurance concerns remained unresolved.

What led to police being at the CCA last month?


Art Workers for Palestine Scotland (AWFPS) had not entered into an agreement with the CCA to ensure that contracting, safeguarding, risk assessment, and access considerations were in place for a five-day event, involving a wide range of participants, including children, which was announced with only 24 hours' notice. CCA would have been in breach of its legal obligations regarding licensing and insurance if we had allowed the event to go ahead.

On the morning of Tuesday 24 June CCA was closed to the public, with access for staff, cultural tenants and contract hires only. AW4PS made a post on social media saying that they needed “as many people to mobilise at CCA at 12 noon to enter the building and reclaim the public courtyard”. At noon, groups gathered outside both entrances. Only after a group entered the building, the police were called.

We regret the impact on all those involved inside and outside of the building. We can confirm that CCA has not called for any charges that have been pressed, nor have we had further contact with police regarding this matter.

Has CCA agreed to work with MUBI?


No. MUBI contacted CCA earlier this year to enquire about a private venue hire. CCA has not entered into a contract with MUBI.

In light of ongoing community concerns and in order to support conditions for constructive dialogue, on this occasion, we have no plans to enter into a contract with MUBI at this time.

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We thank you for your patience as we work towards sharing further updates.

Last updated 11/7/25