The further devolution of powers and funding connected to culture will help tackle economic stagnation and will give a boost to local communities, new study finds.
A new report by the Inclusive Growth Network (IGN), which supports 14 local and combined authorities, has set out a framework for supporting culture and the creative industries at the local level.
Drawing on case studies from across the UK, the report found that further devolution, strong local government leadership, and an end to competitive bidding for funding can boost culture and the creative industries and help revive left behind regions.
IGN also argued that culture should also be embedded in all local and combined authority strategies and policies, including inclusive growth strategies.
Commenting on the report, head of Place and Practice at the Centre for Progressive Policy, Annabel Smith said: ‘The members of the Inclusive Growth Network are pioneers in delivering a more inclusive model of economic growth with and for their communities.
‘Given their significant role in our local economies and communities, culture and creative industries should be at the heart of making this happen. They have the potential to develop the places we want to live and work, create good job opportunities for local people, and improve community resilience, education, and health and wellbeing. These are not ‘nice to haves’ but fundamental if we are to tackle economic stagnation and improve prosperity for all.’
