Matthew Cleaver, Chief Executive of Anvil Arts

When I arrived in Basingstoke more than 30 years ago, it was a borough marked by years of division. Splits between urban/rural population, original residents/London relocation families, areas of deprivation existing for generations side by side with prosperity, drivers versus pedestrians and cyclists, and many more which gave it deep fault lines which have persisted since the late 60s/early70s. Its name has been a national joke since the days of Gilbert and Sullivan, compounded by the system of roundabouts and of a now dated ‘concrete jungle’ development. The decision to build a series of estates surrounding the town centre without good public transport connections increased the problem. The lack of a university and a commuter town mentality gave the idea that the best things happened elsewhere. The phrase ‘cultural desert’ was too often used.

In the face of these problems, the Borough Council acted boldly with the decision to build The Anvil, right in the centre of town, an international concert hall, with acoustic quality comparable to anywhere in Europe - a statement of intent about changing the image of the town for its residents and visitors alike. It backed this up with consistent investment in a range of arts and culture over more than 30 years. The concept of cultural provision in the town as a source of local pride, a tool for placemaking and a powerful way of bringing communities together for shared enjoyment, enrichment and development all continue to be at the forefront, and Basingstoke punches well above its weight on the national scene.

With exciting large scale developments in housing, leisure and sports provision, and life sciences, planned or already taking place, and local government reorganisation imminent, the role of culture in the town will be once again to the fore, to help create opportunities, widen horizons, and increase skills and employability for all. Strong partnerships across the cultural sector, both through the Cultural Compact and individual strong relationships with community and professional partners, are already flourishing. The Town of Culture will be the perfect springboard to recognise, showcase and strengthen the central role of culture in the future of Basingstoke and I enthusiastically endorse this bid.