Northern Beaches Council has adopted its Arts and Creativity Strategy, which sets out Council’s commitment to building and supporting a vibrant creative culture on the Northern Beaches.

Endorsed at Council’s October meeting, the strategy Connected through Creativity 2029 recognises the wealth of arts and creativity in the region, the potential of local creative industries as well as the importance of local Aboriginal arts and culture.

Mayor Michael Regan said it was clear the local community wanted Council to play a stronger role in ensuring long-term sustainability and viability of arts and culture across the Northern Beaches.

“The Arts and Creativity Strategy defines a vision for the arts that will have positive social, cultural and economic impacts on the community.

“Fundamental to this vision is listening to and supporting local Aboriginal communities in self-determination and to share their culture. The community has strongly indicated that Aboriginal heritage and culture should receive greater public recognition.

“There was also a call for more creativity in our urban and suburban spaces, which we have noted and included in a new strategy, Make room for creative expression.

“Our Coast Walk Public Art Strategy is a good example of what we plan to do to create more vibrant engaging public spaces.

“We are supporting creative efforts in theatre, music, dance, art and writing through our Community, Arts and Culture Grants Program that has provided $240,000 for local organisations this financial year.

“From our community feedback, we know the local community wants an expansion of our current arts/music festivals. So we have a draft Northern Beaches Destination Management Plan currently under development. This plan will consider how festivals and events can help attract visitors to the area.

“And of course, we have the Manly Art Gallery & Museum as well as the Glen Street Theatre which are the jewels in our arts and culture crown.”

The Arts and Creativity Strategy was shaped by an extensive community consultation process early this year and late in 2018.

“The draft strategy as it was has now been amended to better reflect the community’s aspirations for arts and creativity,” Mayor Regan said.

The current actions in the strategy are included in Council’s current budget and future commitments will be incorporated into future budget developments as required.

Media Enquiries: media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au 9942 2678