Culture strengthens communities

According to a guide published by Queensland Government, Australia, there are a number of good reasons to focus on culture and creativity in community planning. It strengthens the feeling of identity and belonging, and helps making an area more attractive for locals and visitors alike.

The guide is primarily aimed at supporting smaller local communities in their planning, but refers also to other studies and publications that demonstrate how important creative activity and cultural identity is in a broader sense, as well.

Queensland Government has outlined a vision for the region to be a culturally dynamic place, rich in diversity and experiences. They put a lot of work into achieving this, in order to help strengthening identity and to improve the general quality of life. They state that their program "recognises that cultural development activity is an essential part of community planning and a vital element in happy, healthy communities."

The culture of communities is always part of a bigger, integrated framework. It has the ability to impact on social, economic and environmental prosperity, as well as creating and enhancing identity and connection to place. Creative practice can help the environment by increasing local distinctiveness and make public spaces more beautiful. Economically, it can help bringing more tourism into a region, and contribute to the creation of public and private sector partnerships.

Cultural thinking helps communities to profit on their inherent creativity to improve their own quality of life and the socio-economic well-being. In order to achieve this it is, according to the Queensland guide, important to identify what your community or region has to offer and then set strategies and plans for action.

Source: Queensland Government, Department of Housing