Staffordshire leaders gather at Lichfield Cathedral to explore culture’s role in shaping place and economic growth

Cultural, community and local authority leaders from across Staffordshire came together last week for a roundtable hosted by We Are Staffordshire – the county and city’s place marketing organisation – at Lichfield Cathedral.

The discussion focused on how culture can strengthen place identity, boost civic pride, and support economic growth as the county prepares to mark the 10th anniversary of Staffordshire Day and launch its new Cultural Strategy to 2030.

Chaired by Simon Warburton, Chief Operating Officer at Lichfield Cathedral, the event gathered senior figures around the Cathedral’s striking 13‑metre Fenland Black Oak table to explore how cultural assets can drive regeneration and help shape Staffordshire’s long-term ambitions.

Hayley Coles, Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities at Staffordshire County Council, said:

It is time to truly put Staffordshire on the map – not just as a place with heritage, but as a county defined by a rich tapestry of culture, creativity, and stories that shape who we are. Culture isn’t an optional extra for Staffordshire; it is the lifeblood of our communities, the beating heart of our identity, and a powerful driver of future growth and pride.

Today’s conversation made that clearer than ever. The passion, insight and ambition shared by partners, practitioners and experts showed just how much culture connects people to where they come from, strengthens their sense of belonging, and fuels civic pride across our towns and villages.

What we heard today will directly shape our cultural priorities as we look ahead to Staffordshire Day, to our roundtable at the Houses of Parliament and UKREiiF later this year, and to the launch of our much‑anticipated Cultural Strategy for the county. This is a pivotal moment for Staffordshire, and we are ready to harness the full potential of our cultural sector to inspire communities, attract visitors, and ensure our heritage continues to thrive for generations to come.”

The Right Reverend Jan McFarlane, Dean of Lichfield, added:

Lichfield Cathedral has been a place of gathering, community, inspiration and faithfor 900 years, making it the perfect setting for this important discussion. It was inspiring to hear such shared enthusiasm and commitment to Staffordshire’s cultural future.”

We Are Staffordshire will mark the 10th anniversary of Staffordshire Day in 2026 with a landmark event at the House of Commons on Tuesday 28th April, celebrating Staffordshire’s innovation, creativity, and economic strength on a national stage, bringing together MPs, policy makers, and industry leaders.

The outcomes from the roundtable will help inform a further roundtable debate at the House of Commons event with national place experts and leaders, led by Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford, ensuring Staffordshire’s cultural ambitions are represented on the national stage.

Local businesses are encouraged to apply to exhibit at the Houses of Parliament, with ballot entries now open until Friday 20 February 2026. Find out more information and to how to apply here. 

For further information, please contact: hello@wearestaffordshire.co.uk