Outer London one of UK's most culturally vibrant regions (From Watford Observer)

Outer London one of UK's most culturally vibrant regions

10:31am Tuesday 19th September 2006

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OUTER London is fourth in a list of the UK's most culturally vibrant communities, according to research published by Arts and Business (A&B).

A&B is a national charity dedicated to creating mutually beneficial relationships between business and the arts.

Its cultural vitality index (CV) creates a definitive list of the UK's most culturally vibrant communities.

Outer London almost tops the list thanks to a healthy 24 per cent of its cultural organisations receiving over £100,000 in business investment.

A&B said previous work on cultural indicators shows that businesses mostly invest in culture to increase brand awareness and engage with their target demographic.

The high levels of investment in Outer London's cultural sector demonstrates how culturally engaged its citizens and visitors are thought to be by local businesses.

Emma Denne, head of corporate communications for Land Securities, said: "It comes as no surprise that outer London is in the top five of A&B's CV.

"It's an area that has long been recognised for encouraging creativity and enterprise in business.

"In a similar way, outer London's business community recognises that by supporting local cultural initiatives businesses benefit enormously in a range of real and measurable ways.

"Companies continually seek innovative ways to reach out clearly and imaginatively to their target audiences.

"It stands to reason, therefore, that the cultural vitality of outer London is thriving, thanks to the support lent by local people and local businesses."

Jonathan Landsberg, regional director of Arts and Business London said: "I'm delighted to see outer London in the top-five.

"It goes to demonstrate the value of the work that A&B is doing in bringing together arts and businesses to create a richer, more vibrant London."

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