Why it matters: A 10-year Culture and Heritage Strategy is being developed for Ipswich, with organisers saying it will help maximise the role culture plays in the town's identity, economy and wellbeing. The strategy aims to be owned and delivered by the whole town, for the whole town.
The details: A day of Community Conversations will take place at Ancient House in the Buttermarket on Saturday, 4 April, from 10:00–16:00, when volunteers will invite shoppers and retailers to share their views. The event will coincide with a Street Performance Showcase taking place across the town centre.
The Creativity Survey is already live, and residents are encouraged to complete it and share it with others. Local filmmaker Tom Hobden has also been commissioned to gather stories that capture Ipswich through the eyes of its residents.
The big picture: Work on the strategy began last year through a consultation initiated by Ipswich Borough Council. This second phase, led by cultural organisations and individuals across the town, builds on ideas and evidence gathered so far. It is supported by Arts Council England, Ipswich Borough Council, Ipswich Central and Suffolk County Council.
In the coming months, a management and delivery structure involving representatives from culture, the creative industries, business, education, local government and community organisations will also be established.
What they're saying: Lee Walker, CEO of Ipswich Central, said: "Culture in Ipswich has always been shaped by the people who live, work and create here. This consultation is about capturing that power and reflecting it in a long-term strategy.
"As Ipswich prepares its bid for UK City of Culture 2029, it is more important than ever that local people help define the story we want to tell about our town."
Kath Cockshaw, project director for Wolsey 550, said: "I'm so pleased this will be a joint Culture and Heritage strategy for Ipswich. We have seen this work so well in other towns and cities. Ipswich's star is rising."
Ed Ngai, director at Community Hub Ipswich CIC, added: "When we shift our mindset from competition to collaboration, we unlock new opportunities for the whole town. By sharing ideas, supporting one another and building together, we can create a creative ecosystem where everyone has the chance to thrive."
What's next: By 4 April, Ipswich will also know whether it has been longlisted for UK City of Culture 2029. Organisers say that while the ambition to deliver a 10-year strategy will remain regardless of the outcome, the result of the competition may influence the pace and scale of what can be achieved.
The bottom line: Whether you pop into Ancient House on 4 April or take five minutes to fill in the Creativity Survey online, this is your chance to help shape what culture and heritage look like in Ipswich for the next decade.
