Gloucester is well on its way to developing a clear 'cultural identity' – that's the evidence of a recent City Council report.
The 15-page Cultural Strategy Update outlines the progress made across seven 'strands' of activity.
Around 50 council officers and representatives of local organisations were contacted to provide the information.
The report looks at everything from creating an attractive City Centre to heritage and cultural tourism, creativity, sport, diversity and marketing.
It highlights more than 100 achievements over the six month period from November 2012 to May 2013.
Council Leader, Paul James, commented: " When you look at the numbers of people who have contributed to this report and the span of activities it is hugely impressive.
" We have everything from our economy to the arts and sport. It shows how organisations are joining forces and how these activities bring people and communities together."
Successes include government funding for heritage improvements, events such as the Tall Ships Festival, work by the Cathedral's own masons, further government funding that recognises the work to promote the local economy, a residents weekend, award winning night markets and the opening of the Blackfriars Athletics track – as just a few examples.
Added Councillor James: " The icing on the cake has been winning the bid to be a Host City for Rugby World Cup 2015. We are developing a cultural identity to be proud of. It spans and celebrates our history and diversity.
" We are working hard to continue to develop it. 2015 will be our opportunity to demonstrate what we have to offer to thousands of visitors from both home and abroad."
The strategy was first adopted in 2007 and its seven main themes include:
· Making sense of the City Centre – creating an attractive and vibrant City Centre.
· Rethinking heritage and cultural tourism – improving access, visability and quality of heritage facilities with a particular emphasis on the water/maritime history.
· Raising the stakes for creativity – making provision for a growth in the creative industries.
· Broadening Gloucester's excellence in sport.
· Enjoying and supporting diversity.
· Planning for a 'transformational' project.
· Marketing and promoting Gloucester.
The full strategy can be found on the City Council website at www.gloucester.gov.uk