Decision details

Using commissioned reports, sector best practice and TWBC’s 5 Year Plan & Cultural Strategy to inform discussion between Planning and the Cultural Service (in consultation with relevant Member Portfolio Holders), the Culture Team has created new Public Art Guidance, which is referenced in the new Local Plan. It is hoped that this Guidance will be adopted by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, after public consultation has taken place.

The Guidance seeks to define expected commitments of new developments in terms of their contribution (Section 106) to ‘Public Art’ which are both realistic but ambitious. It creates a definition of ‘Public Art’ which takes into account the many and varied expressions of culture, including: permanent & semi-permanent display/installation/sculpture, heritage interpretation, performance, learning & engagement activity, and contribution to larger cultural projects. This Guidance document has gone through public consultation and is now presented for final approval and acceptance as an official document.

RESOLVED – That the Public Art Guidance as set out at Appendix A to the Report be adopted.

REASON FOR DECISION:

To issue guidance that would allow TWBC to obtain funding for Public Art programming from upcoming major developments.