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. Big decisions are being made right now about the future of culture — where money goes, what gets supported, and what gets prioritised. New regional powers mean there’s a real opportunity to invest in culture alongside housing, health and transport. But nothing is guaranteed. If the creative and cultural sector doesn’t help shape those plans, others will do it for us.
“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.
.The Counting Culture Prospectus, led by Made in Essex, will land with decision-makers in July 2026. With only days to go until the 24 May deadline, now is the moment to have your say — this document, shaped by you and the wider sector, will directly influence how culture is embedded within growth plans, investment strategies and future budgets.
Counting Culture is supported by
