November’s Digbeth First Friday sees the launch of Companion Culture: Four Actions for Digbeth - a new community led cultural action plan for this unique part of the city.

Over 300 people contributed to the development of this clear and pragmatic framework which aims to support the continued growth and success of this culturally significant area of Birmingham, well known for its vibrant mix of galleries, street art, cultural organisations, artists and music and
performance venues.

The Cultural Action Plan aims to build a companion culture where Digbeth’s diverse ecology works together to collectively create an environment that maintains a healthy, thriving culture. In turn, this will support the wellbeing of our neighbouring wards and the cultural life of Birmingham. The plan addresses urgent challenges that cultural organisations face, such as rising rents, shifting urban landscapes, and increasing development pressures. It aims to create an environment where the terms ‘growth’ and ‘development’ also apply to the cultural wellbeing of Digbeth.

This is a call to action to the many stakeholders who are invested in the development of Digbeth now and in the future and, we hope, the start of open and reciprocal working relationships that will see everyone from individual artists and residents to developers and the city council thrive.

In partnership with JACK ARTS, part of BUILDHOLLYWOOD, the launch will be supported by billboards to showcase the four actions, and in the evening events at venues across Digbeth will highlight the wide range of art, culture and independent activity.

Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy an evening of free performances, exhibitions and more. Copies of Companion Culture will be available at participating venues. You will also find it online here.

A new website and noticeboard for Digbeth’s cultural community has been created to begin putting
the plan into action companionculture.digbethfirstfriday.com

Image: Keith Dodds