Hosted by arts organisation Metal Southend with the Association of South Essex Local Authorities (ASELA)

Background

Last year the creative sector across South Essex were invited to share their views on future priorities through a consultation process led by the local cultural sector on behalf of ASELA. The ‘More than a Place’ report summarising recommendations is now publicly available via the Metal website, click here to download the pdf.

Current context

Metal have been appointed to support ASELA in the next phase of work, which is the development of an ambitious co-produced cultural strategy and action plan building on the ‘More than a Place’ research to achieve the wider ASELA place-making ambitions including SEEPARK (South Essex Estuary Park)

Connecting the dots

One of the key findings from the research was the need for better communication between stakeholders, local authorities, and grassroots creative businesses ‘on the ground’, so we are keen to take this early opportunity to engage you with the process to gather input that can inform practical, workable plans to achieve the exciting ambitions for the region.

Draft agenda

The full agenda will be shared closer to the time, proposed agenda includes:

• Summary of the ‘More than a Place’ report
• The changing landscape since ‘More than a Place’ was published
• Discussion
• Share the current programme of work being undertaken by ASELA
• Gather feedback and identify new areas of focus for the cultural strategy

Please do share widely to ensure as many creatives as possible can join the conversation.

You may also be interested to know that a new Essex Cultural Network is being launched on 25 May, find more details and to register for the event.

Image credit: Hayden Peek - creative behind Rebel Future in the private office he uses at space282. Photo by Martin Wagdin.