Culture in East Suffolk
In East Suffolk we are proud of our culture offering, and celebrate the rich diversity of our cultural, arts and heritage assets.Â
We have a vibrant creative sector, full of fantastic local talent and originality, inspired by our magical coast, delightful towns and beautiful rural areas. This is reflected by the wealth of past and present artists and creatives, who not only contribute to our local economy, but provide a genuine sense of worth and pride for our communities.
At East Suffolk Council we understand the transformative powers of culture in our places and our communities.
Cultural Strategy
East Suffolk Council’s 2023 – 2028 Culture Strategy, developed in partnership with stakeholders, is guiding our efforts to boost growth of the creative sector and support increased engagement in cultural events and activities for residents of East Suffolk within the next five years.
Cultural Strategy Action Plan 2026-2028
In 2026 ESC has published an updated East Suffolk Cultural Strategy Action Plan for 2026-2028. Reflecting on the achievements and outcomes of the Cultural Strategy 2023 – 2026 and the objectives and outputs for the next two years. The cultural strategy revised document includes a new focus on Environmental Impact of the cultural sector.
Cultural Development Lead
East Suffolk Council has appointed a Cultural Development Lead, Janet Perry, who is a point of contact for the sector.
Do not hesitate to contact Janet if you have any questions, development opportunities or projects you want to share or discuss: janet.perry@eastsuffolk.gov.uk
Newsletter
In 2024, East Suffolk Council introduced a new network newsletter tailored to the culture sector, to improve communication and share opportunities.
Stay informed about funding opportunities, events, business support, case studies, and strategy developments by subscribing to the Culture in East Suffolk network newsletter.
Culture in East Suffolk Networking events
Join your nearest East Suffolk Council face to face network event for the creative sector & supporters, these take place throughout the year and cover the whole district – and they’re completely free to attend!Â
Heritage Open Days
Grants and support
East Suffolk’s creative industry can access business support and grants from East Suffolk Means Business.
There are a number of grant schemes currently open to applications, as well as free start-up support, free Net Zero consultancy, and free business support.
Council support
East Suffolk Council continues to support cultural sector organisations, projects, programmes, and regeneration projects in a variety of ways, including First Light Festival CIC, Lowestoft Post Office, The Cultural Quarter, Think Lowestoft, Lowestoft Town Hall, St Elizabeth Hospice Art Trail, as well as supporting many town events and community focused activities.
