The Impact of Culture in the City

Join us for a forward-looking event exploring the power of arts and culture to shape the future of Northern Ireland's towns and cities. Bringing together business leaders, policymakers, developers, local authorities, cultural practitioners, academics, community organisations and tourism stakeholders, this event will explore how arts and culture can drive meaningful change in our urban environments. As our towns and cities face growing social, economic and environmental challenges, understanding the role of culture as a catalyst for placemaking has never been more important. From public art and creative programming to heritage, music, storytelling and cultural experiences, culture transforms spaces into places, where people want to live, learn, work, visit and invest. Through expert insights, discussion and shared experience, the event will examine the strategic value of culture in urban placemaking, regeneration and economic renewal. We will explore how investment in creativity can contribute to vibrant, resilient and people-centred places. We will delve into how cities can turn a cultural moment into a lasting asset, and bring the right partners to the table to create effective cross-sector partnerships. Together, these partnerships can unlock culture’s full potential to shape the future of Northern Ireland’s towns and cities. This event is delivered in partnership with Ulster University Business School, Cathedral Quarter BID, Belfast City Council and Belfast One BID.