“Bradford’s year as City of Culture may be over, but it has left an imprint on the people and place” writes TheMJ’s editor, Heather Jameson, reporting on GatenbySanderson’s partnership with The MJ and the city council to host a Round Table Dinner to discuss the 10-year culture plan, Bradford’s year as City of Culture and the economic growth it has sparked.
“Bradford is a vibrant, diverse city with a population of 560,000, with culture at its heart. But it is not by accident. It has taken a conscious effort – and a lot of work – to put the city on the cultural map.” Heather’s full report can be read here.
Sally Wilson, partner in our Local Government practice, said “I was proud to stand in front of a room of senior leaders from across the North and say: ‘I’m from Bradford.’ I didn’t always feel wholly comfortable to say that. The success of Bradford’s story isn’t just visible in strategy documents or investment figures, it’s felt. It’s seen in how residents talk about their city, how businesses engage, and how visitors experience it. That pride is powerful. It’s also contagious.”
Sally’s reflections on the evening can be read here: Bradford: Changing the Narrative Through Culture, Pride and Place
Our thanks to all round table speakers and attendees:
Sally Wilson – Partner, Local Government practice, Gatenby Sanderson
Philip Emms – Partner, Local Government practice, Gatenby Sanderson
Gary Evans – Principal Consultant, Local Government practice, Gatenby Sanderson
Camille Revuelta – Senior Consultant, Local Government practice, Gatenby Sanderson
Heather Jameson – Editor, The MJ
Katy Archer – Head of culture and place marketing, Sheffield City Council
Dan Bates – Executive director, Bradford City of Culture
Kerri Farnsworth – Founding director and urbanist, 360 Cityshapers
Prof Rafaela Neiva Ganga – Associate professor of cultural and health management, Liverpool Business School
Lorriane O’Donnell – Chief executive, Bradford City Council
Matt O’Neill – Executive director of growth and sustainability, Barnsley MBC
Helen Pheby – Head of culture, heritage and sport, West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Neil Taylor – Independent director of growth and place
Robin Tuddenham – Chief executive, Calderdale Council
David Watson – Assistant director of culture, policy and events, Bradford City Council
David Wildman – Director for skills and regeneration, Kirklees Council
Michael Wilkinson – Director of strategy and commercial, Opera North
Andy Williams – Director of economy and skills, Birmingham City Council
Louise Yates – Director, Back to Ours Hull
If you would like to explore with us how our Local Government practice can support your current leadership priorities and challenges, get in touch at info@gatenbysanderson.com
