Making space for creative industries in Wigan

03 July 2024

From its pubs and nightclubs that have served as a birthplace of Northern Soul to its beautiful industrial buildings, Wigan is rich with cultural infrastructure, both old and new. We Made That, in collaboration with ekosgen and GC Insight, is supporting Wigan Council in developing a creative industries asset strategy that harnesses opportunities and infrastructure to support a long-term blueprint for the borough's cultural and creative sector growth.

The strategy seeks to leverage cultural and creative assets to foster a cohesive and dynamic landscape that drives economic growth and enhances community well-being. From Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley to Standish and Wigan, our approach includes a strategic review of the borough’s cultural assets and infrastructure. This involved creating a cultural infrastructure map for the area and an examination of existing policies and data to articulate strategic opportunities. Additionally, we're engaging with local and regional stakeholders to ensure that any identified interventions address both local and regional needs.

We know that Wigan has a strong and vibrant community of creatives, and this strategy needs to ensure that there are the right types of facilities to allow this community to thrive. We also know that there is an opportunity to position Wigan as a regional hub for creative production in performance, music and visual arts, offsetting the decline in these facilities in the wider region.

“This strategic document will not only help create a blueprint for future investment in the facilities the creative sector needs locally, but it will also help strengthen Wigan’s role and purpose in the wider region.”

Dr Eve Avdoulos, Senior Associate

As Wigan refreshes its cultural strategy, "The Fire Within," our work will provide a framework for sustainable development of cultural infrastructure. By identifying and harnessing the unique strengths of the borough, we aim to create a vibrant ecosystem that supports creative industries, attracts investment, and improves quality of life for residents.

Through strategic planning, community involvement, and a celebration of its unique heritage, Wigan's creative industries asset strategy will pave the way for a thriving and sustainable cultural future.

Photo: King Street mural, Wigan (Credit: Rosa Kusabbi)