Prosperity and Purpose
The Case for the Cultural and Creative Sector in Greater Essex
Highlighting the profound value, impact and reach of our sector, Prosperity & Purpose: The Case for the Cultural and Creative Sector in Greater Essex makes an undeniable case for it to be recognised as a strategic force that drives growth, improves public health, and turns the places we live into places where we truly belong.
Taking The Pulse of Our Creative Powerhouse
Fuelled by a 36,000-strong creative workforce, our sector is a titan of the Greater Essex economy. Last year,1.4 million adults across Greater Essex—91% of the population —engaged with culture either in person or digitally. Meanwhile, our county attracted an incredible 54.2 million tourists, who contributed approximately £3.5bn to the local economy. Beyond the balance sheet, with 53 major creative health initiatives happening across Greater Essex, we are building a healthier county too.
Have your say… Shape the future
The publication of this Case coincides with the launch of Counting Culture, our new advocacy campaign. As Greater Essex moves towards a new political landscape, the choices made now will shape our future for years to come, and Counting Culture will set out key priorities for investment and growth, shaped by those working within the sector.
“Counting Culture arrives at a pivotal moment for Greater Essex, and we welcome this Case to articulate a shared vision for the county's creative future. The insights gathered will provide vital evidence to support a thriving creative landscape that benefits communities across Greater Essex for many years to come.”
Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England
Anyone who is part of the cultural and creative sector in Greater Essex – from front of house assistant to CEO, technician to creative freelancer – is invited to have their say between 13 April – 24 May, while Counting Culture is live. You can find out more here.
Findings from Counting Culture will inform our Prospectus - a bold and forward-looking document designed to seize the opportunities created by devolution and local government reorganisation – which will be published in July 2026 to coincide with our first major sector gathering.
Counting Culture is supported by
