ANOTHER £11million is set to be dedicated to Coventry’s reign as UK City of Culture 2021 after the announcement of a new preparation plan.
Coventry City Council will recommend a cash boost to deliver a ‘city readiness and legacy programme’.
The new £6million programme will see investment in city infrastructure, promotion and cultural organisations to prepare for Coventry’s complete campaign from 2018-2023.
The council argues the significant benefits of such a programme will act as a catalyst for future development and regeneration after 2021.
Separate to the new programme, the council will also recommend another £5million to be used for securing external grants to enhance the city’s cultural venues and destinations.
The council has already set aside around £5million for events costs which was allocated last year.
Former City of Culture Hull’s ‘readiness and legacy’ plans contributed to bringing about investment of around £3.4billion.
It also helped create around 800 new jobs.
New positions will be created to oversee the programme and funds will also be dedicated to preparation for Coventry’s year as European City of Sport 2019.
A report to be discussed at the cabinet meeting next Tuesday (August 28) claims the programme could boost pride in Coventry, confidence and wellbeing as well as making the city a more attractive place to live.
It states: “The award of UK City of Culture represents more than a title.
“As the bidding process has demonstrated, it is an opportunity to create new partnerships, to build aspirations while bringing our communities together and to celebrate the rich heritage and unique qualities of a city.
“It is also an opportunity, through culture, to raise the profile of a city, to attract new investors and to enable significant regeneration in and of the place.
“The city effectively has the benefit of the title for seven years from announcement, through delivery year to three years legacy.
“Experience from previous Capitals and Cities of Culture indicates investment in development capacity can support significant external investment in the city and lever in external grant funding.
“A further £6.1million in a city readiness and legacy programme for 2018-2023, reflects the projected economic benefits of extending, accelerating and aligning wider investment in city and cultural development.”
The recommended funding package would enable investment in cleanliness of the city, better access to key locations and new parking provision.
It also promises improvements to traffic control, prompt and effective planning and building services as well as the city’s creative industries.
