Bedford Cultural Partnership
The Bedford Cultural Partnership is a growing alliance of local cultural organisations, Bedford Borough Council and the University of Bedfordshire.Together, they’re championing culture as a driver for social, creative and economic growth. Currently operating as an informal action group, the Partnership is laying the groundwork for a strategic Cultural Compact that will guide the Borough’s cultural future and support initiatives like the Bedford Arts & Cultural Education (BACE) network.
Our Vision
1: Build a Community-Led Cultural Democracy2: Widen Inclusion of Voices and Audiences3: Develop Culture as a Strategic Priority in Placemaking
By 2030, Bedford Borough will be a role model for strong cultural democracy - driven by a borough-wide network of creative communities who shape, enjoy and make culture together.
NEWS
Launch of the Bedford Cultural Vision
On Wednesday 1 October 2025, The Quarry Theatre in Bedford hosted the launch of a bold new Cultural Vision for Bedford.This public event marked the unveiling of a shared Cultural Vision developed by the Bedford Cultural Partnership.The vision set out an ambitious roadmap for how arts and culture could drive positive change across Bedford – socially, creatively, and economically – with local communities at its heart.The event featured:
- An introduction to the Cultural Vision for 2030, including its core values and priorities
- An overview of what a Cultural Compact is and how it could benefit Bedford
- Opportunities for attendees to share ideas and aspirations
- Networking with creatives, cultural professionals, and community members
- Live performances celebrating Bedford’s diverse creative communityThe free public event brought together artists, educators, and residents passionate about shaping Bedford’s cultural future.
EVENTS
Bedford Borough's Cultural Vision: A Cultural Compact for Bedford
The Bedford Cultural Partnership is inviting creative people and Bedfordians passionate and about arts & culture to this next meeting at The Place Bedford, on Wednesday 3rd December 2025, from 5pm-7:30pm, to discuss what a Cultural Compact might look like for Bedford.A Cultural Compact is a type of network or structure that helps to support and connect creative people across an area to develop arts & culture.In this meeting you can:
- Find out more about what a Cultural Compact is
- Hear about the difference Compacts have made in other regions
- Discuss with fellow creatives what a Compact might look like for BedfordThis event is free and open to all. Book your place on The Place Bedford website, linked below.
