Coventry’s year as the UK City of Culture 2021 marked a significant transformation for the city, and Coventry University played a central role in its success. The university partnered with the City of Culture Trust and the University of Warwick to support the planning, delivery and evaluation of the programme, contributing to a wide range of cultural activities, boosting the local economy and enhancing Coventry’s reputation as a hub for the arts and creative sector.
A key aspect of the collaboration included providing the site of the former Civic Centre buildings for free to use as an entertainment hub during the city’s year in the national spotlight. The Assembly Festival Garden hosted a series of productions spanning children’s shows, high-profile comedy and music gigs, providing a new platform for local artists and entertainers.
Through strategic investment, research and a focus on inclusivity, Coventry University played an instrumental role in making the City of Culture 2021 a resounding success, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
Strategic Investment and Economic Growth
The City of Culture programme attracted an additional £183 million in investment to Coventry, significantly benefiting the city’s economy. Coventry’s tourism sector also saw a major uplift, with the overall economic impact reaching over £750 million in 2022, a £156.5 million increase from pre-pandemic levels. Coventry University invested more than £5 million into the City of Culture programme, funding research, student-led projects and cultural initiatives that showcased the city’s creativity and diversity (Coventry City Council) (Coventry University).
Community Engagement and Cultural Impact
Coventry University played a vital role in engaging the local community, with 47% of Coventry’s residents participating in City of Culture events. Inclusivity was a key focus, with 77% of events co-created with local communities to reflect Coventry’s multicultural identity. The university also contributed to evaluating the programme’s success through in-depth research and monitoring, ensuring that the city’s cultural growth was both measurable and impactful (Coventry University).
A Lasting Cultural Legacy
Coventry University remains dedicated to ensuring that the momentum from the City of Culture continues to benefit the city. As part of Coventry’s 10-year cultural strategy , the university is committed to supporting ongoing cultural initiatives and creative enterprises.
This includes jointly funding – with Coventry City Council and the University of Warwick - a new post based in the council’s Culture and Creative Economy team. The role supports the delivery of council-led initiatives in the city in collaboration with the two universities, ensuring that we continue to play an active role in developing the city’s cultural and creative ecosystem.
In addition to this, planning permission has been granted for the City Centre Cultural Gateway, which will see the former IKEA building brought back to life as a focal point for cultural, creative and educational activities. Coventry University plans to redevelop two floors, with a range of facilities benefiting students, visitors and the community, helping to ensure that the legacy of the City of Culture year continues to enrich Coventry’s social, economic and cultural landscape.
