NNC working on cultural masterplan for the area

14 August 2024

North Northamptonshire Council has started work on a project that once complete will look to enhance and develop the cultural infrastructure in the local area.

The masterplan, using funding from central government, will focus on theatres, art galleries, museums, public art and community cultural programmes. It will provide strategic direction for cultural growth, growing community engagement and promote economic development in the tourism industry.

The culture masterplan will complement and enhance the already developed Northamptonshire Tourism strategy and the North Northamptonshire Council Culture, Tourism and the Heritage Service business plan by providing a focussed and strategic framework for cultural development.

Culture and heritage is at the heart of areas across the country - it makes us who we are as communities - and North Northants is no exception. So, it is important that we continue the work that has already been started under our tourism strategy and Culture, Tourism and Heritage Service business plan with the development of this masterplan.

As I have said previously, we have a rich tapestry with so many wonderful highlights across the local area from beautiful stately homes to stunning countryside and the masterplan will be a celebration of what is great about North Northants. It will also look at what has been achieved in the sector so far, whilst looking to the future and how we can boost it even further, drawing more visitors into the local area.Cllr Helen Howell, the council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Sport, Leisure, Culture and Tourism

We are committed to developing and enhancing the cultural offering in North Northamptonshire and this masterplan is the next step.

It will map and analyse existing cultural assets, identifying gaps and opportunities, whilst engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders to help ensure that the cultural needs and aspirations of North Northamptonshire are met.Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council

The project to develop the cultural masterplan will start in September 2024 and once a plan has been developed alongside key stakeholders in the sector, it will be sent to NNC’s Executive for formal approval. If approved, the council would then seek external funding to help deliver the masterplan.