Tendring’s creative scene took centre stage as Arts Council England returned to the district to see first-hand the artists, festivals and heritage projects helping to put the district’s culture in the spotlight.

The visit to Harwich gave Tendring District Council (TDC) the chance to bring local artists, organisations and community partners together to show how national investment is helping to build confidence, create opportunities and bring more people into arts and culture across the district.

Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England (ACE), joined colleagues for the organisation’s third visit to Tendring in recent years, with stops including the redeveloped Harwich Library, Harwich Arts and Heritage Centre and Harwich Town Council’s Guildhall.

Representatives met cultural organisations and festival producers to hear about work already taking place, explore future opportunities and discuss how partners can continue to support creativity and participation in towns and communities across Tendring.

Councillor Gary Scott, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said he was delighted to welcome Arts Council England back to Tendring.

"Their return visit demonstrates the confidence they have in our creative and cultural ambitions and recognises the progress that has been made across the district in recent years,” he said.

"The visit provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the fantastic work being delivered by our artists, cultural organisations, volunteers and community partners.

“From theatre and heritage projects to festivals and community programmes, creativity is playing an increasingly important role in helping our communities thrive.

"As an Arts Council England Priority Place, we have benefited from strong support and partnership working which has helped us attract investment, build capacity and create new opportunities for local people.

“We are ambitious about the future and look forward to continuing that journey together."

A highlight of the visit was a performance of Katherine by Harwich-based theatre company Slaget Theatre and Funnelwick Limb, reflecting the breadth of creative talent developing locally and the role culture can play in animating historic places.

Hazel Edwards, ACE’S South East Area Director, said: “It was wonderful to visit Harwich and see first-hand the passion and ambition that is helping to develop the arts and culture scene across Tendring.

“Meeting local artists, organisations and community partners highlighted the positive impact that investment in arts and culture can have in bringing local communities together.

“Arts Council England is pleased to continue working with Tendring District Council and local partners to help ensure that more people can access high-quality creative opportunities."

The visit also highlighted how culture can reach beyond the arts themselves, supporting health and wellbeing, helping people stay active and bringing renewed energy to town centres and high streets.