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"Museums, galleries and libraries have adapted imaginatively to lockdown, providing new and innovative services for their communities, but they have been unable to generate income during this time putting many at risk of closure."

"It is vitally important that councils retain oversight of the activities allowed in their local areas so that they can manage different interests, including the need to contain COVID-19, accessibility issues, the interests of local residents and any competing demands between different businesses."

“It would be a tragedy if our collective efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 are undone in a way that leads to a resurgence of this deadly virus that puts further lives at risk.”

“It is up to individuals and businesses to make sure they act responsibly and safely, including maintaining social distancing. Councils will be working with police, businesses and other partners to ensure existing and new requirements are complied with."

“We are pleased that the Government recognises the important role that tourism plays in boosting the UK economy and that it has provided this much needed funding."

“It is great that the Government has recognised the importance of culture to the social fabric of our nation by announcing this funding which will be a lifeline to many theatres, galleries and museums which have been severely impacted by coronavirus."

“It is great news that gyms and leisure centres can reopen, and many people will be hugely excited about being able to safely visit them again."

'We have been highlighting the perilous financial state that these services are in and are pleased with the Committee’s recommendation that leisure centres should be given financial support before August.'

“This emergency support for our cultural and creative sectors is positive and a vote of confidence in their contribution to society, our economy, and our standing in the world."

Councils remain one of the biggest investors in culture, sport and leisure - spending over £2 billion a year - a new report by the Local Government Association sets out today.