Southend MP’s Anna Firth and Sir James Duddridge KCMG were joined by City Council leaders at a major Westminster launch for a report on the importance of culture in cities.
The report titled ‘Culture and Place in Britain’ was published by the Key Cities network in partnership with Arts Council England, using new data to make the case for stimulating local economies and tackling deprivation through investment into culture.
Colchester, which became a city in 2022 after Southend received its letters patent, was praised for its leading efforts on investing into the arts whilst tackling key social issues which faced local people.
According to the report, approaches such as these mean culturally engaged communities do better – not only by bringing people together, but also by creating a positive social and economic legacy.
The local MPs reaffirmed their long-standing commitment to Southend’s cultural sector and the Town2City Partnership despite the council’s regretful decision to not back the 2029 City of Culture bid.
Anna said,
“The report on Culture and Place in Britain confirms exactly what I have been saying to Southend City Council since the start – true investment, and belief, in our thriving cultural sector will bring so many benefits to our local community.”
Sir James Duddridge KCMG MP said,
“As we take full advantage of Southend’s city status, supporting our fantastic creative sector will be key to unlocking regeneration and economic opportunities across our city.”
