Cumberland Council unveils cultural strategy

Cumberland Council has shared details of its first Cultural Strategy for West Cumbria.

The strategy was developed with support from more than 100 partners and was part funded by Arts Council England (ACE), nuclear engineering management company Sellafield Ltd and the council.

It covers the former areas of Copeland and Allerdale, which both received funding uplifts in ACE’s latest national portfolio round. Copeland was also highlighted as an ACE priority place for investment in 2021.

The 44-page document, available on the council’s website, sets out a five-year plan focused on raising the area’s cultural profile and will support funding applications, flag opportunities for development and guide investment in the local cultural and heritage sector.

“The new strategy sets out plans to boost the visitor economy and improve health and wellbeing across our area. It outlines how, together, partners will deliver a strong cultural offer here,” said Cumberland Council’s Director of Place, Sustainable Growth and Transport, Darren Crossley.

“Combined with the Carlisle Cultural Strategy, the Cultural Strategy for West Cumbria will provide a strong direction for cultural activity, investment and funding.”

ACE Director North Jen Cleary said the council is delighted to be supporting the strategy: “We applaud the partners who have come together with a commitment to progress this and we look forward to our continued involvement”.