PLANS are in place to turn Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole into a “powerhouse” for arts and culture with the introduction of an international-scale festival.
BCP Council is proposing to bring in a new ‘landmark’ cultural venue and an international-scale cultural festival in a bid to turn the conurbation into a ‘world class’ arts and cultural destination.
Set out over 10 years, the new Cultural Strategy will aim to attract the cultural investment the sector requires to flourish and grow.
It will focus on three themes - talent, infrastructure and place - and has been developed with the help of local cultural groups, practitioners, artists and performers.
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Part of the plan includes the creation of a Cultural Consortium by 2025, with the aim of “amplifying the voice of the cultural and creative sector” which the council said will regenerate the three towns.
Cllr Beverley Dunlop, cabinet member for tourism and culture, said: “Culture brings communities together, initiates pride in a place and nurtures respect and understanding.
“It reaches across the divide, breaks down barriers and can be life-changing. It is festivals, food, heritage and tradition as much as it is arts and performance.
“Connecting people through culture should be our greatest aspiration. Whoever you are, resident, visitor, cultural provider, performer or artist, this is for you.
“I am proud to have been part of this strategy. With it, we will be well placed to establish ourselves as a regional cultural powerhouse.”
Morag Wood, chair of BCP’s Cultural Compact, said: “Building a more resilient, inclusive and diverse future for culture has never been of greater importance.
“Despite the significant challenges we face today, culture cannot be just a ‘nice to have’.
“Culture not only supports our wellbeing, it drives growth, creates jobs and develops skills and creativity. Where culture thrives, whole places are enriched."
She added: “Ultimately, this will place Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole in a strong position to attract the cultural investment the sector needs to flourish and grow and provide a real opportunity for us to take our place as one of the leading cultural city-regions in the UK.”
The plans will be discussed at next’s week’s cabinet meeting, on Wednesday, March 8.
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