Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: December 11, 2025

Purpose:

Content: 9.1 The Head of Culture and Place Marketing and the Service Manager, Culture were in attendance to present a report which gave an overview of the performance and progress of the Culture Strategy for Sheffield, a year after it was adopted and launched. The report outlined the progress made in aviation, partnership building and capacity development, despite resource and sector challenges.     9.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Economic Development, Skills and Culture Policy Committee supports and champions:   a)    The successful first year of the Sheffield Culture Strategy delivery b)    The establishment of Culture Sheffield and the planned expansion of the team in 2026 c)    The priorities and plans for the second year of delivering the Sheffield Culture Strategy     9.3 Reasons for Decision     9.3.1 The recommendations are made to ensure continued momentum and support for the Sheffield Culture Strategy, following a successful first year of delivery. The strategy has activated the sector, created new partnerships, and delivered targeted support to freelancers, organisations, and major events, despite ongoing resource and sector challenges. Committee support is vital to sustain this progress, enable the expansion of Culture Sheffield, and address the sector’s evolving needs.     9.3.2 By reaffirming commitment to the strategy and recognising the achievements of both Culture Sheffield and the wider sector, the committee will help secure the foundations for further growth, resilience, and inclusive cultural development across the city. Continued leadership, investment, and collaboration are essential to achieving the long-term ambitions set out in the Culture Strategy.     9.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     9.4.1 While there were no alternative options to delivering the Culture Strategy, the team did consider different approaches to implementation. The chosen method prioritised laying the foundation for culture to thrive by focusing first on sector activation, partnership building, and capacity development. This approach was selected after consultation with over 1,000 stakeholders, ensuring the strategy was rooted in Sheffield’s needs and ambitions. Other delivery methods were considered, but the emphasis on collaborative leadership and inclusion was determined to be the most effective way to achieve long-term impact and resilience for the city’s cultural sector.