The role of culture in regeneration is being highlighted with the publication of two documents that seek to define successful communities as those with culture at their heart. A consultation paper, ?Culture at the Heart of Regeneration?, identifies three ways in which the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) can ensure that culture becomes embedded in regeneration projects; by building relationships between areas of government, and between culture and regeneration practitioners; by disseminating good practice; and by finding methods to measure the impact of culture in regeneration.
Speaking at the launch of the consultation, Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell said: ?Culture matters for its own sake. But the argument doesn?t stop there? Success for us will be when culture is as important to planners, developers and government when looking at new projects, as the economy and jobs currently are.? She also set out a six-point plan for building successful and sustainable communities through culture. A second DCMS publication, ?Leading the Good Life?, offers guidance on the integration of cultural and community planning. The guide aims to help local authorities utilise new powers to promote the well-being of local areas. It explores several themes, including establishing a case for the contribution of culture, and building strong partnerships. To respond to the consultation or to access ?Leading the Good Life?, see the website at http://www.culture.gov.uk.
Published: 12-07-2004