As part of the work of the Local Policy Innovation Partnership Programme’s (LPIP) Strategic Hub, City-REDI has organised a Special Session at the 2025 Regional Studies Association Annual Conference, which is scheduled to take place at the University of Porto, Portugal between the 6th – 9th May 2025, focusing on two interrelated key themes of the LPIP programme: Culture, and Communities in their places.
The aim of the session is two-fold: firstly, to showcase some of the research taking place within the LPIP network that relates to better understanding place-based approaches through the dual lens of cultural infrastructure and community engagement. Secondly, it offers an opportunity to share examples of similar place-based approaches from contexts outside the UK. Below is a summary of the approach of the session, with specific questions and thematic areas we are looking to showcase. Finally, we offer some key dates and information of the conference, encouraging any academics who feel their work falls within scope to submit, or share with any colleagues who do so instead.
Place-based policymaking is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of governance across many countries. By tailoring national policies to regional and local contexts, governments aim to address deeply rooted regional inequalities and empower local actors to shape their own futures.
Culture lies at the heart of place-based policymaking. However, defining “culture” is a complex endeavour. It encompasses not just physical assets like heritage sites and cultural institutions but also the intangible elements of identity, community, and relationships that define a sense of place. Together, these elements create a framework through which cultural and creative industries (CCIs) can thrive, contributing both economic and social value.
The integration of culture into place-based policymaking has significant implications. To be effective, interventions must be co-designed with local actors, ensuring they reflect the unique character and needs of the region. But this is easier said than done. Questions about inclusion, representation, and how to equitably distribute cultural resources persist. Addressing these challenges requires not only a deep understanding of the cultural landscape but also a commitment to empowering communities and leveraging their unique strengths.
The LPIP Hub will look to organise further Special Sessions, exploring key questions relating to the five other priority themes of the Hub at future conferences. If you are interested in being part of a future Special Session, please contact Abigail Taylor.
Capacity, Capability, and Confidence in Place
The success of place-based initiatives hinges on the ability to build capacity, capability, and confidence within communities and regions. Through strengthening local partnerships, enhancing skills and resources, and fostering trust among stakeholders, regions can better address their challenges and capitalise on opportunities in a way that reflects their local realities.
To facilitate this process, collaboration and knowledge-sharing are essential. By drawing on the experiences of different countries and contexts, policymakers and practitioners can identify best practices and innovative solutions that are adaptable to the bespoke nature of their challenges.
Submissions
We welcome submissions that may consider the following themes:
Conceptualising Culture and Identity:
- How do we understand ‘culture’ and identity in place, and what are the implications for inclusion, exclusion, and cultural infrastructure across regions?
Evaluating Cultural Infrastructure:
- What are the impacts of regional variability in cultural infrastructure, and how can the contributions of arts and culture be assessed beyond purely economic metrics?
Stimulating Inclusive Cultural Activity:
- How can place-based initiatives inclusively stimulate cultural activities that reflect the diverse demographics of their communities?
The Role of Community Assets:
- Why is investing in community assets important for achieving social, economic, and environmental improvements?
Engaging Anchor Institutions:
- How can anchor institutions and place-based partners effectively invest in community assets to enhance regional outcomes?
Best Practices for Community Engagement:
- Why is active community engagement vital, and what are the best practices for implementing it across different contexts?
By addressing these questions, we can better understand how to develop strategies that are not only effective but also equitable, inclusive, and reflective of the diverse identities that make up our regions.
Important Information
Submit abstracts: On the ‘Gateway’ select SS069 – Culture, Communities, and Infrastructure: Building Capacity, Capability, and Confidence in Place
Deadline for abstracts: Thursday 19th December 2024
Abstract length: 250-300 words
RSA Annual Conference 2025: Navigating Regional Transformation
Tuesday 6th – Friday 9th May 2025, School of Economics and Management, University of Porto, Portugal
Any questions please contact:
This blog was written by Dr James Davies and Dr Abigail Taylor, Research Fellows, City-REDI, University of Birmingham.
Disclaimer:
The views expressed in this analysis post are those of the author and not necessarily those of City-REDI or the University of Birmingham.