The Creative Economy

Photo by Staurt Muxlow

Creativity is at the heart of Yorkshire

“And today, the force of British creativity is renowned throughout the world” (Creative Britain CEP Strategy Document)

At last the value of the creative industries’ contribution to the economy is being openly recognised, not only by the Government but also by the City and the wider business community.

Yorkshire and the Humber is a region of varied landscape; cosmopolitan cities, market towns, national parks and quaint coastal ports. It has a diverse population, with vibrant cultures and thriving businesses, many of which are involved in the Creative Britain agenda.

This region, like many regions, has been contributing to the creative economy over the past nine years through region-wide activities and initiatives designed to stimulate economic growth and employment opportunities.

Yorkshire Forward is responsible for the economic growth of the Yorkshire and Humber region and it is my role, in consultation with industry, to develop the Regional Strategy for the creative and digital sectors and to influence and bring a regional perspective to any national policies.

Following the Government’s release of the Creative Britain strategy document and the Sub National Review, more emphasis is being put on regional and local intervention, recognising the diversity of regional geography, topography and demographics.

• Creative Britain highlights a number of commitments, some nationally identified and others regionally determined with the Regional Development Agency as the lead agent

• The Sub National Review highlights the importance of local delivery by local authorities.

Why does every region want to be seen as a Creative Hub?

Is a creative hub a place where the creative industries network and share a glass of merlot or is more about creating the environment that stimulates, encourages and helps businesses grow and prosper?

Creativity is not confined to being part of a creative hub, it is at the heart of business and is seen as a business driver, along with innovation and enterprise.

The way that businesses interact with their markets and customers has changed dramatically over the past few years as a result of the convergence of enabling technologies stimulated by the demand for information on the move. And with the emerging business models for revenue generation and wider market penetration that need a more collaborative approach between businesses. With a developing culture of open innovation not only to share knowledge but exploit that shared knowledge, along with the importance on Skills and CPD (Continual Professional Development) as being a significant component of a developing knowledge based economy. And finally to create an environment that inspires and stimulates a culture of innovation and collaboration, a location that can develop a brand of desire that attracts association, commitment and investment.

What supports a creative region?

The creative and digital sectors are highlighted as a key economic driver for the region in the Regional Economic Strategy 2006–2015, but it is wrong to assume that this is the sole responsibility of the Regional Development Agency. Whilst the RDA strives to create the appropriate business environment and to widen opportunity through its initiatives and policies, what really supports a creative region is the whole culture of creativity that comes from the businesses and the people working and living in the region.

Public intervention will help the creative industries to grow, generating wealth and employment, which will have a very positive effect on both the regional and UK economy. But this is not enough if the UK wants to be recognised as the global creative hub.

“They recognise Britain as the hub of creative endeavour, innovation and excellence and they are drawn to the strength of our creative economy.” (Creative Britain CEP Strategy Document)

The Creative Economy Programme strategy is not exclusively about growing the creative industries; its true value will be realised when the creative industries use their knowledge, experience and skills to influence the thinking and activities of all the other sectors.


“To stimulate creativity and sharpen Britain’s creative edge” (Creative Britain CEP Strategy Document)