Nearly 40% of Bracknell Forest is covered in woodland and forest, and the local authority has now approved ambitious plans to promote arts, culture, and heritage by enhancing its distinctive "forest" identity.
At a council meeting held on Tuesday, Bracknell Forest Council unveiled its new cultural framework, which focuses on the borough's natural environment as a source of inspiration and pride for its residents. The framework is designed to make the most of the area's unique assets, even as funding for the arts remains "highly limited." The council intends to prioritize resources to achieve the "greatest impact" in these areas.
Key Areas of Focus
The framework outlines four primary areas of focus, one of which includes significant investment in local libraries and the renovation of Bracknell town centre. The town centre is already set for transformation, with plans to build nearly 1,000 new homes, as well as office spaces, community facilities, and children's play areas in the coming years. The council envisions incorporating more open spaces into the centre to make it a more "vibrant and welcoming" place for residents and visitors.
As part of its plans, the council also aims to turn libraries throughout the borough into "multi-functional community spaces." Nine libraries are set to roll out a new service structure this month to better serve the local community.
Supporting Local Arts and Heritage
The new framework also emphasizes collaboration with local parish and town councils, as well as support for South Hill Park Arts Centre. Among the key proposals are investments in an amphitheatre shelter and an expansion of the Wilde Theatre by adding approximately 70 additional seats.
The council is excited about using its "forest" identity to inspire and boost arts and culture, creating a lasting legacy that will benefit both the local community and the broader cultural landscape of Bracknell Forest.