Creative Estuary

Our ambition is simple: to transform 60 miles of the Thames Estuary across Essex and Kent into one of the most exciting cultural hubs in the world. Stretching from Southend to Margate, the Thames Estuary is a region of untold creative potential. Creative Estuary is driving forward the creative and economic evolution of this unique region, unlocking its potential both as an international production hub and a collaborative, inspirational working space for a new generation of creative talent. Creative Estuary will: • Give people access to excellent quality art by commissioning new creative talent that attracts new audiences and participants • Develop a shared identity for Thames Estuary, making it in one of the most attractive locations for creative businesses to work, collaborate and grow • Create sustainable workspaces and support the people and networks needed to embed creative industries in the region • Embed arts and culture into the design and function of new developments and public spaces, facilitating places for creative activity to occur. • Champion the next generation of creative talent and future leaders, providing mentoring, training and access to aspirational projects and opportunities • Learn from and share with programmes across the UK and internationally to strengthen local leadership, expertise and knowledge • Increase innovation, drawing on the expertise of our university partners to share knowledge and drive commercialisation Creative Estuary is supported by The Department of Culture, Media and Sport and led by a consortium of public sector and cultural organisations. They include the South East Local Enterprise Partnership, Kent and Essex County Councils, the Greater London Authority, 11 local authority areas represented by Thames Gateway Kent Partnership and Opportunity South Essex, South East Creative Economy Network, University of Kent, University of Essex, Locate in Kent and cultural organisations Metal & Cement Fields