This inquiry will explore how cultural policy, investment, and practice shape the identity, wellbeing, and economy of the West Midlands. It will consider the needs and opportunities of the entire region, from major cities like Birmingham and Coventry to smaller towns and rural communities across the Black Country, Shropshire, and Herefordshire.
A central focus is broad local engagement: we will gather insights directly from a range of stakeholders across the region to ensure the emerging vision reflects the diverse communities and cultural landscape.
Findings will inform a final report, offering evidence-based recommendations to guide future policy and investment and promote the West Midlands as a region where culture, wellbeing, and economic vitality go hand in hand.
Call for evidence
Our evidence gathering session will include both oral and written submissions from a wide range of sources across the region. This will then be compiled into a final report with recommendations to present to MPs and Ministers in order to enact policy change where appropriate. If you would like to contribute to this inquiry, please do so by completing the form.
We will also be holding three in-person sessions in Stafordshire, Birmingham and Worcestershire. Details to follow.
Express interest here
Erica Love,
Chair of Workstream on Culture, Place & Liveability
“I have worked in the region’s cultural sector for 18 years, on transformative programmes, leading both Creative Partnerships and Creative People and Places in Stoke-on-Trent as Director of Partners in Creative Learning. I joined Culture Central in December 2019 and during that time have led it through a period of significant change, transforming the organisation into an inclusive and democratic space to ensure the visibility and viability of the region’s cultural ecology through the pandemic.
I believe in the power of creativity and culture and am looking forward to leading Culture Central at both an exciting and challenging time for the sector and the West Midlands. I am particularly looking forward to our Inquiry into Culture, Place, and Liveability, so we can advocate for and create more opportunities through culture for the people and places of the West Midlands”