Online network to bring culture to the coast

A new online network is hoping to revive England’s coastal towns with culture, following the decline of traditional tourism.

Launching on 27 February, the Coastal Culture Network will help connect arts and cultural organisations, local authorities, Coastal Community Teams and other local groups.

It aims to facilitate partnerships and increase the number of cultural events and activities taking place in seaside towns. It will also share information and opportunities, and advocate for the role of culture in regeneration.

Hosted on the Coastal Communities Alliance website, the network will permit organisations to become members and create a profile for free. They will then be able to connect with other members and access case studies and resources.

Laura Dyer, Executive Director for Arts Council England, said: “We hope to see it bringing together new partnerships, as well as encouraging the sharing of best practice, helping to bring great art and culture to more people.”

The network is being led by Hastings Borough Council and is a development of the Opera for All project, which was a partnership between Magna Vitae Leisure Trust, Garsington Opera and the Coastal Communities Alliance, funded by Arts Council England.

“I’ve seen the positive role that culture can play” said Matt Warman, MP for Boston & Skegness, “and am therefore very happy to support the new Coastal Culture Network to help share good practice and promote the benefits of cultural activity in more communities around the coast.”