Development of Wrexham's 10-year Cultural Strategy (2027-37)

Tender description

Development of Wrexham’s 10-Year Cultural Strategy (2027–2037)Issued by:Wrexham Community & Culture Trust (WCCT)IntroductionWrexham Community & Culture Trust (WCCT) is seeking to commission an experienced organisation to co-develop a bold, inclusive and visionary 10-Year Cultural Strategy for Wrexham County Borough (2027–2037). This strategy will play a critical role in shaping Wrexham’s future as a vibrant cultural hub, grounded in local identity and ambition, and informed by the values embedded in the Wrecsam2029 UK City of Culture bid.BackgroundFollowing an extensive programme of creative engagement workshops, and building on the momentum of Wrexham’s UK City of Culture 2029 bid, WCCT is now investing in the long-term cultural strategy for the county borough.Wrexham is home to a rich mix of cultural institutions, a vibrant creative community, and a rapidly evolving civic identity, recently bolstered by city status. The Cultural Strategy must build on these strengths, foregrounding play, creativity, grassroots culture, and the Welsh language as drivers for economic, social and cultural opportunity.Aims of the Cultural StrategySet out a bold, compelling and ambitious vision for culture in Wrexham over the next decade.Reflect Wrexham’s unique character and celebrate our history, creativity and sense of place.Position culture as a catalyst for economic and social change, increasing cultural participation and creative opportunities for all.Be rooted in community voice and local identity, with particular emphasis on inclusion and diversity.Core PrioritiesThe successful applicant will co-develop the Cultural Strategy with WCCT and key stakeholders, ensuring the following are embedded:Collaboration with key institutions including Wrexham University, Wrexham County Borough Council, Wrexham City Board, National Trust, Wrexham AFC and others.Inclusion of diverse and underrepresented voices, with a strong focus on community-led development.Integration of findings and values from WCCT’s Creative Engagement Workshops around the Wrecsam2029 bid.Alignment with and reference to the Wrecsam2029 City of Culture bid and its four pillars:Arts & MusicSportHeritageFood, Drink & HospitalityCentral focus on play and playfulness as cultural values.A clear strategy for embedding and promoting the Welsh language.Practical pathways to increasing access to cultural experiences across Wrexham.A defined approach to grassroots culture development and nurturing emerging creatives.A robust funding and sustainability strategy for cultural activity and events.Emphasis on placemaking, civic pride and community storytelling.A redefinition of culture that is radically inclusive, proudly different, and rooted in creativity at every level.DeliverablesA comprehensive written Cultural Strategy (2027–2037) and executive summary – English versionA comprehensive written Cultural Strategy (2027–2037) and executive summary – Welsh versionThe Cultural strategy must identify local, regional, national and international partners and cultural collaborations.A visual/public-facing version suitable for broad audiences.Stakeholder engagement plan and record of engagement sessions, ensuring collaboration and consultation has been delivered meaningfully and sensitively.Recommendations on implementation and monitoring.Strategy launch plan (including event ideas, materials, and messaging support).BudgetA budget of £30,000 is available for this commission, inclusive of all fees, expenses, travel, facilitation, design, and reporting.Application RequirementsInterested organisations should submit:A proposal outlining your approach and methodology.Understanding of Wrexham’s cultural context and relevant local partnerships.Details of key personnel and relevant experience.Examples of similar strategic or cultural projects.Proposed timeline and detailed budget.Evaluation CriteriaProven experience in cultural strategy development.Track record of inclusive, creative community engagement.Deep understanding of Wrexham and Wales’ cultural sector.Quality, creativity and feasibility of approach.Experience of working with underrepresented communities and the Welsh language.Value for money.Commitment to collaboration with WCCT and local stakeholders.Submission DetailsShortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal interview with WCCT and partners.NOTE: To register your interest in this notice and obtain any additional information please visit the Sell2Wales Web Site at https://www.sell2wales.gov.wales/Search/Search_Switch.aspx?ID=154876. (WA Ref:154876)