Support from organisations for council bid for town of culture

Before drafting the first‑stage proposal, the council got feedback from a wide range of cultural partners across the BCP area, to fully understand the views of those involved in the sector.

Based on this feedback the local authority proposes to highlight the rich local cultural offer and shared identity which is shaped by the coastal and natural landscape across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.

The Town of Culture programme could help broaden participation and increase creative opportunities for all BCP communities, including making greater use of public spaces for cultural events.

Cllr Andy Martin, portfolio holder for culture, communications and customer, said: “Our bid is built on a simple message: we are better together, and the support we’ve received from our cultural community has been really inspiring. Their input and knowledge are central to our proposal.

“By working as one cultural community we can create bigger opportunities, reach more people and showcase the best of our place – creating a legacy that lasts well beyond the bid year, inspiring future generations and supporting a thriving cultural economy.”

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Paul Kinvig, chief operating officer of Bournemouth Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), said: “Culture is a central part of the reimagining of town centres and we have a fantastic sector that is playing a vital part in that process, right across the ‘three towns.’ The rich variety of our cultural offering not only provides opportunities for people to enjoy diverse experiences but also provides vital economic growth & social fabric to the life of the conurbation.”

Viv Charrett, Mayor of Christchurch, said: “The idea of our three towns working together to bid for the Town of Culture seems a great idea. Each of our towns has different strengths. In Christchurch we have much more than a millennium of history and a plethora of great summer festivals by the river. We would be delighted to contribute to the success of the whole.”

Elspeth McBain, chief executive officer for Poole Lighthouse said Lighthouse is proud to support the council’s bid.

She said: “This is a region that consistently punches above its weight in cultural ambition, innovation, and talent. Securing Town of Culture status would not only help accelerate that ambition but also recognise and celebrate the extraordinary creativity of our communities.”

Dominic Wong, Bournemouth Writing Festival director said the festival is proud to support the bid.

He said: “We’ve seen first-hand how inspiring writers to write can bring people together, amplify diverse and unheard voices, and inspire creativity at every level.”