Kate Burns, Cultural Corridor - Bolsover District

The Cultural Corridor is boosting the local culture and creativity in three parish council areas: Ault Hucknall, Glapwell, and Pleasley. It includes the villages along the A617 from Stainsby to Pleasley Mill. Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, through Bolsover District Council and focused on improving wellbeing and pride in our community. The Cultural Corridor project is managed by the Doe Lea Centre and facilitated by the Cultural Corridor Development Worker, with support from the Bolsover District Council Arts Officer and partners along the Corridor. This community led project believes that creativity can make our community stronger. The Cultural Corridor keeps the existing cultural scene vibrant, whilst creating new events and creative opportunities for the communities along the corridor and people who want to visit.

"The Cultural Corridor’s focus on improved wellbeing and pride of place reflects its dedication to helping communities flourish. We aim to sustain and nurture the existing cultural landscape by encouraging local engagement; a strong sense of place and belonging. This commitment ensures that people feel at home and inspired to stay in, visit, and connect with the area. By supporting community venues and promoting participation in cultural activities, we cultivate local pride. The Cultural Corridor emphasises co-produced creativity and community-driven projects; a shared identity and empowering residents to collaboratively shape and celebrate their area. By fostering new creative opportunities and encouraging intergenerational input, we aim to inspire a flourishing community.

In the last year the Cultural Corridor has worked with over 30 other local organisations, providers and artists to deliver our project. This partnership working has been key to our success and has fostered a sense of ownership and collaboration, as well as contributing to the local economy.

We have worked with some real hidden gem venues within the Cultural Corridor, for example - Willow Walk, Pleasley Pit, Doe Lea Centre, Verney Institute, Glapwell Centre, Stainsby Festival. Such great spaces. There is so much creativity and a strong sense of community too."

3 words to describe Bolsover: Creative, Cultural, Community

"I believe in Bolsover because it is a place where history, creativity and a strong sense of community come together."