Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the Creative Framework:
1. What is the Creative Framework?
The Creative Framework is a five-year strategy that aims to accelerate creative sector growth and maximise its impact across Warwick district through partnership and collaborative working. It provides a collective vision for our creative communities to unite around and outlines how they can shape and influence how the sector is defined in the future.
2. How was it developed?
Developed following consultation with over 400 creative business and organisations (2019 and 2024), and informed by a creative sector impact study, the framework highlights how the sector already contributes to the identity and prosperity of the district and proposes new ways in which stakeholders might support our creative industries to continue to grow.
3. Who created it?
The Creative Framework as developed by Warwick District Council’s Arts Section.
4. Why has it been produced now?
A refreshed enthusiasm and momentum was building in the region’s creative communities for several years prior to 2019, which was captured and presented in Warwick District Creative Framework 2020 – 2025. The impact of the global pandemic (2020 – 2022) changed the trajectory of growth in the creative sector – as people and businesses adapted to the challenges it presented. However, the Creative Framework, which launched two months prior to emergence of COVID 19, provided a reminder of the strength, ambition, and collective vision of the sector and a focus for growth activity against the backdrop of an uncertain future.
The work towards devolution and double devolution, and recent change in both local (May 2024) and national (July 2024) political administration continues to create both opportunities and challenges. The Creative Framework, therefore, remains a valuable tool in distilling and articulating the value of Warwick district’s creative sector.
5. Who is it aimed at?
The Framework aims to include all of the creative industries as described by the Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport’s definition of creativity, from across the public, private and voluntary sectors. This includes crafts, film, TV, video, radio, photography, museums, galleries, libraries, music, performing arts, visual arts, advertising, marketing, architecture, product design, graphic design, fashion, IT software, IT services, game design, publishing.
6. What does it hope to achieve?
By 2030, Warwick district will have built on its growing reputation as a thriving creative cluster of national significance. It will be known for its distinctive blend of rich cultural heritage and cutting-edge creative companies. Residents in our towns and rural communities will continue to feel pride in their local area and be inspired by shared cultural experiences, which celebrate the dynamic, innovative character of the district.
In five years’ time, Warwick district will be experiencing increased positive economic and social benefits of existing and planned creative regeneration. Our thriving, interconnected creative sector will continue to play a crucial role in the prosperity of the area and support the ambition of Warwick district being the first choice for people to live, work, and visit
7. How will it be delivered?
The Creative Framework will be championed by the Warwick District Creative Compact. The Compact will provide strategic leadership for the district’s creative industries and a platform to connect the sector. Warwick District Council can’t do this alone. Every creative person and organisation has a role to play in ensuring that the district reaches its immense potential - where the creative industries can flourish and thrive, ensuring that Warwick district continues to be a great place to live, work and visit.
8. I still have questions! How can I find out more?
Contact Johnathan Branson, Projects and Development Manager, on johnathan.branson@warwickdc.gov.uk.
The Creative Framework is a five-year strategy that aims to accelerate creative sector growth and maximise its impact across Warwick district through partnership and collaborative working. It provides a collective vision for our creative communities to unite around and outlines how they can shape and influence how the sector is defined in the future.