Arts in the Forest could 'flourish' with funding

Forest of Dean District Council has agreed to invest in the local art sector

The arts sector in the Forest of Dean "could flourish" thanks to new funding, according to councillors.

Arts, culture and heritage will get a £120,000 boost after the Forest of Dean District Council agreed to set aside funding to employ a dedicated officer.

The main purpose of the three-year post is to enhance the Forest's cultural offering and enable the sector to prosper, the council said.

Thriving communities cabinet member Jackie Dale said: "We are fortunate in the Forest of Dean to have a vibrant arts, culture and heritage sector. With council support, the sector could flourish and do even more to enhance our communities."

Ms Dale presented the report on Thursday at the Forest of Dean District Council meeting, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

"It would help improve the health and wellbeing of our residents and communities," she said about employing a dedicated culture officer.

"A thriving arts culture and heritage sector would enrich all of our lives."

Councillor Johnathan Lane echoed the contribution of the arts and culture industry makes to the Forest of Dean's economy.

"It's really big and sometimes it does not go acknowledged," he said.

"Hopefully this can play a part in being one step along the journey of creating a more dynamic economy in the Forest of Dean."

Councillor Sid Phelps, who seconded the proposal, said it was "fantastic".

"I'm absolutely delighted, the Forest of Dean as we know is a wonderful place for culture and heritage," he said.

Work on the strategy is under way and the council is hoping to get an officer in place by the end of the year.