For some time now, Gloucester’s cultural life has been developing. Not long ago, we were considered a cultural desert (with some honourable exceptions) and collectively we have been working hard to change that.

The Rugby World Cup in 2015 reflected the cultures of the visiting nations, including Georgia and Argentina. In 2016 we launched a 10-year Cultural Strategy for the city and set up the Gloucester Culture Trust. Since then, National Lottery Great Place scheme and other funding has brought nearly £2m into the City.

One of our ambitions is to be able to mount a credible bid for City of Culture 2025. Decision time on whether to take this leap is getting close. City of Culture involves putting on a year-long programme of quality events and performances. This can bring huge benefits in terms of tourism, the economy and jobs, boosting civic pride, involving schools and young people, and giving opportunities for volunteering.

Hull, who were City of Culture in 2017, saw an increase in visitors of over a million a year, added £22 million to the value of their local economy, and 75% of residents said it made them proud of their city.

Delivering social benefits, bringing the city together and leaving a legacy

It’s not about putting on highbrow performances for the elite or having a year-long party, but about delivering social benefits (like improved health), bringing the city together and leaving a legacy. If we are to have a decent chance, businesses, community groups as well as the cultural sector and public sector partners all need to come together.

The benefits would be spread widely – not just in the city centre, but in all communities in and beyond the city’s borders. Of course, there’s a considerable cost to bidding and an even greater cost for the successful city. Some of that cost is met by the Arts Council and other funders, the rest would need to be spread amongst a wide range of partners and not just fall on the Council.

Those places who have applied in the past have said there is a benefit to being on the journey, even if ultimately we didn’t win. It can help us deliver our ambitions to revive the city centre and deliver positive change in our communities. But we need the whole city to get behind it. Should we go for it? Please let me know your thoughts.