What do you want Preston’s creative and cultural life to be like in 2032?

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That’s the question being asked of anyone involved in arts, creativity and culture in the city.

It’s part of a strategy consultation by the Preston Cultural Framework Board, commissioned by Preston City Council, and supported by The Brew Time Collective, a new network of independent creative and cultural practitioners in Preston.

Although 2032 – Preston’s next Guild year – is some time away, the results of the consultation will be published in Spring 2020. The document, known as the 12 Year Cultural Strategy, will act as a guide to the shared visions, aims and actions that artists, communities and organisations can work towards immediately.

A spokesperson for The Brew Time Collective said: “The idea of the project is to celebrate talent in the city, identify areas for improvement, increase good communication and collaboration, and raise Preston’s profile regionally, nationally, and internationally – all which could lead to future opportunities, bigger audiences, and a higher quality of events to enjoy.”

Two sessions have already taken place, the results of which can be seen on the Something’s Brewing website.

The next session, called Strategic Directions, will take place on Tuesday 21 January from 6pm to 9pm at UCLan’s Media Factory in Kirkham Street. There will be a light buffet and refreshments from 5.30pm. To book your place, email contact@somethingsbrewing.org.uk and include any special access or dietary requirements.

Stephanie Fletcher, volunteer Cultural Governor on the Cultural Framework Board, and Director of the Birley artist studios, said: “If you are anything like me, you might be a bit sceptical about these sorts of consultation events (let’s face it, they are often pretty boring and not as inclusive as they could be!).

“Fortunately, this process is offering a proper chance to get together and have your say. The first consultation process last year was halted as many people did not feel included. A network of artists and creatives came together to initiate a more grassroots approach, and The Cultural Framework Board and Preston City Council have responded really positively to support this.

“Let’s celebrate creativity in our city and make some ambitious plans together for the future!”

Read more: Celebrating Preston’s artistic talent with the Harris Open

Derri Burdon, Interim Chair of the Cultural Framework Board and CEO of Curious Minds, said: “The Cultural Framework Board is delighted to be working with Preston’s independent creative community to shape an ambitious 12-year cultural strategy for the city.

“Conversations so far indicate that something special is most definitely brewing. Everyone involved is determined to create a strategic plan that speaks directly to the people of Preston and their incredible creative history.

“As we work towards Preston Guild 2032, the aim is to position the city as a major player in the cultural and creative sectors, regionally, nationally and globally.”

Read more: Harris Museum, The Birley and In Certain Places have been named among the North’s top 50 cultural organisations

What do you think of the consultation? Will you be getting involved? Let us know in the comments.