Cultural strategy and action plan

 

Woking's Community Strategy sets out a future for the Borough based on the local community's aspirations and vision. Its aims for improving the quality of life for people in Woking include creating:

• a strong community spirit with a clear sense of belonging and responsibility
• a clean, healthy and safe environment which values personal health and well-being
• integrated and accessible local facilities and services.

Pop music, picnics in the park, a community fete, brass bands, traditional dance, a Saturday pub lunch, a visit to a church or Mmsque, or a game of five-a-side football are all cultural activities and play a large part in enriching our quality of life.

Woking has developed its own Cultural Strategy and Action Plan to help take forward the aims of the Community Strategy.

A dynamic culture can contribute to:

• healthier, more satisfying lifestyles

• lifelong learning and personal development

• stronger local identity

• the Borough's economy

• making the Borough a desirable place for people to live, work or visit.

How was the draft Cultural Strategy and five year Action Plan drawn up?

The proposals set out a draft Strategy and Action Plan and were tested with a consultation programme during January and February 2004.

• During this period over 400 questionnaires were distributed Borough wide.
• We held focus group discussions with many 'hard to reach groups' including older and younger members of the community and the minority ethnic community.
• On-street interviews took place in the town centre with the general public, whilst a group of street performers entertained and promoted an awareness of the consultation.
• A dedicated and interactive website www.wokingbigidea.com was also launched to run alongside the consultation.

Please take a moment to look at a summary of our consultation programme.

The Strategy and Action Plan was adopted by the Council in May 2004.