Gloucester is set to benefit from new cultural opportunities over the next three years, having been named as one of Arts Council England’s priority places for investment.
Published on Thursday 15 September 2021, the Arts Council’s Delivery Plan for 2021 to 2024 names 54 priority places across England, including 11 in the south west region, where it will focus its development time over the next three years – strengthening cultural and creative opportunities in places that have been overlooked in the past.
With Gloucester named as one of its priority places, the Arts Council will work closely with local stakeholders to realise new opportunities for increased investment in culture.
Home to historic waterways, an iconic cathedral and plenty of museums that explore its rich military, nautical and Roman heritage, Gloucester is brimming with history – and investment in culture is at the heart of its ambitious regeneration plans.
Despite this, the city has districts that rank among the most deprived in the south west region and, as a result, it has been declared a priority one place in the government’s Levelling Up Fund Index, as well as an Arts Council priority place.
Gloucester’s priority place status recognises the need for increased development time from the Arts Council, with plans to grow cultural investment in the area – determined through an independent assessment which realised the city’s ambition to drive positive change through culture, while considering factors like previous investment levels.
With support from the Arts Council, Gloucester will benefit from increased development time and investment in local culture, helping it to rebuild post-pandemic as well as giving residents more opportunities to enjoy high-quality cultural experiences in their own communities and neighbourhoods.
Councillor Richard Cook, leader at Gloucester City Council, said: ‘Gloucester City Council sees the potential for sustainable growth and culture-led development taking the city forward as part of its journey, not only to recovery but as a core part of its future identity.
‘As a beneficiary of the Great Place scheme, we can see how sustained investment into arts and culture has lifted aspirations, instilled pride and encouraged more people to engage with cultural activity.’
