Year of culture to help recovery
A MAJOR cultural events programme during a ‘Year of Culture’ in Calderdale in 2024 could play a key part in the economy recovery from COVID-19.
The cultural, creative, heritage and visitor sectors are some of the worst hit by the pandemic.
Calderdale Council and its partner organisations say they are going to harness the power of the unique culture and heritage in the borough to revitalise town centres and rebuild the economy.
Councillor Jenny Lynn, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, said: “Calderdale is known worldwide for its arts, culture and heritage, and the whole borough has been building on this distinctiveness as part of the Vision2024.
“Working with our regional partners, we are doing everything we can to support our cultural and visitor sectors through the pandemic. Our proposed cultural and economic recovery programme would boost support for the sector and build excitement after one of the toughest times in history.
“We all need things to look forward to, to unite and make the most of our wonderful local creative talent. This programme would have diversity at its heart, where everyone could take part, benefit, enjoy themselves and boost their wellbeing.”
At the Council’s Cabinet meeting on Monday March 29, a proposal for a ‘Year of Culture’ is up for discussion. This major events programme would take place in 2024 to celebrate the borough’s 50th birthday, in line with the Vision2024 for Calderdale.
The programme would form a key part of the Council’s regeneration and Inclusive Recovery Plan, to reduce inequalities, develop sustainable towns, tackle the climate emergency and create a new Cultural Strategy for Calderdale, in line with the Leeds City Region / West Yorkshire Combined Authority Economic Recovery Plan.
We are doing everything we can to support our cultural and visitor sectors