A multibillion pound action plan to “supercharge” creative industries in West Yorkshire has been agreed.
This sets out a vision to almost double the region’s creative economy by 2035 – from £2.2bn to £4.1bn.
The Creative Industries Cluster Action Plan was agreed at a meeting of the Combined Authority in Leeds yesterday afternoon. They said that growth would be through “backing freelancers and creative businesses, creating happier, more vibrant communities and putting more money into people’s pockets.”
It also outlined how 50,000 new jobs would be created in fashion, textiles, music, screen and games.
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“This is a great moment for West Yorkshire. With record investment in our creative industries and grassroots sport, we’ll build happier communities and boost jobs and growth,’” stated Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire.
Brabin also signed an agreement to boost access to grassroots sport and physical activity, in partnership with Sport England.
“This bold new culture plan, combined with our flagship agreement with Sport England, will help more of our young people to live healthier lives, pursue creative careers, and contribute to a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire,” she continued.
It is part of the national Creative Industries Sector Plan and it also aligns with the One Creative North collaboration of Northern Mayors, Arts Council England, Creative PEC, Public Service Broadcasters and other partners.
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This has been established to “nurture, sustain, retain and champion” local talent, and add £10bn to the North’s economy by 2035.