The Welsh National Opera has announced that it will no longer tour Liverpool.

The company revealed that the decision was a result of the reduction it received in public funding; per an official press statement, the company is set to receive a 35 percent reduction (2.2 million pounds) from the Arts Council England.

“Following their recent announcement, we are now facing a significant cut to our ACE funding. The reality of this means that we have no option but to make cost savings and this will result in difficult decisions,” said Welsh National Opera General Director Aidan Lang in an official press statement. “Our decision to withdraw from performing in Liverpool is regrettable, but has been carefully considered, taking into account a wide range of factors which will help us to make cost savings without impacting the quality of our work.

“In recent years, we have taken many steps to reduce our costs, whilst maintaining the balance of producing work of the highest artistic standard and a stimulating program of engagement activities. We are committed to continue delivering our work but will need to diligently review the impact of rising costs and funding cuts as we move forward,” Lang concluded.

The Welsh National Opera is yet another company hit hard by the decision by the Arts Council England. The English National Opera announced that due to its budget cuts, the company would need to leave London, its current city of operation. Protests and petitions followed the announcement in an attempt to save the ENO.