Knowsley Council has announced the launch of its brand new Cultural Strategy and Action Plan 2025-2030, a comprehensive blueprint designed to harness the transformative power of culture to enrich the lives of its residents and drive the borough’s future growth.
The strategy, approved by the council’s Cabinet on 19 March, outlines a clear vision to build upon the successes of recent cultural milestones, including the launch of the multi-award winning Shakespeare North Playhouse and Knowsley’s vibrant year as the Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture in 2022, positioning Knowsley as a cultural powerhouse.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods said: “This Cultural Strategy is more than just a plan; it’s a commitment to embedding culture at the heart of Knowsley,”
“We’ve seen the incredible impact culture can have – from boosting our local economy and creating jobs to enhancing wellbeing and fostering community cohesion. This strategy will ensure everyone in Knowsley has the opportunity to experience, participate in, and benefit from our rich cultural offerings.”
“We believe that everyone in Knowsley has a story to tell, and culture provides the perfect platform to do so.”
Central to the Cultural Strategy is the empowerment of local communities. By fostering accessible and inclusive cultural activities the council aims to enable residents to connect, learn and build a stronger, more cohesive Knowsley where culture belongs to everyone.
Developed in collaboration with cultural consultancy Counterculture, the strategy is the result of extensive engagement with local artists, businesses, cultural organisations, and residents. It addresses the evolving landscape and challenges facing Knowsley, while capitalising on the borough’s unique strengths and ambitions.
Key objectives of the Cultural Strategy include:
- Increased Participation: Driving year-on-year growth in cultural and creative activities, including volunteering.
- Creative Industries Growth: Expanding Knowsley’s creative industries and ensuring the sustainability of existing cultural assets.
- Educational and Employment Pathways: Improving access to further education, training, and employment in the cultural and creative sectors.
- Enhanced Funding and Resources: Securing increased external funding and resources for cultural initiatives.
- Tourism and Events Expansion: Growing Knowsley’s tourism, visitor, and events offer.
- Effective Governance: Establishing robust governance structures to coordinate efforts, measure impact, and share success stories.
The strategy aligns with Knowsley’s broader regeneration plans, the Knowsley Council Plan, the Children and Families Plan, and the Knowsley 2030 strategic outcomes. It also complements regional and national cultural priorities, including those of Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Cllr Powell added: “Knowsley is a Priority Place for Arts Council England, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality cultural experiences. This strategy will enable us to build on our achievements and create a vibrant, culturally rich borough for generations to come.”
By 2030, Knowsley envisions a borough transformed by culture, with communities at its heart. The Cultural Strategy and Action Plan will serve as a roadmap to achieve this vision, ensuring that culture is for everyone, always.
Knowsley Council is committed to improving the quality of life for its residents through strategic initiatives and partnerships. The Cultural Strategy and Action Plan 2025-2030 reflects the council’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and thriving cultural landscape.
View the Cultural Strategy and Action Plan 2025 – 2030 below:
