A BOLD, new vision for arts and culture in Thurrock has been laid out by Thurrock Council.

Members of Thurrock’s cabinet showed their support and said unleashing the creative talent of Thurrock youngsters was vital in the community.

Councillor Lynn Worrall, Communities portfolio holder, said arts and culture can play a powerful role in helping address community priorities, led by the High House Production Park, in Purfleet which houses a Royal Opera House base.

She said: “We talk of raising the expectations and attainment of young people, developing a wider range of job opportunities and increasing the quality of life and the feeling of place – this can actually do it.”

“We’ve already made an impact with thousands of local people as the Royal Opera House continues to work and interact with them – who would have thought of a Thurrock opera, who would have even considered showing opera here? Yet this is now considered normal in Thurrock.”

But she added: “This was just the first step, here we are planning a bold long-term vision for arts and culture so we can achieve even more for local people.

Mrs Worrall praise the Education Commission for highlighting target areas for improvement and said work is already underway to offer every young person in Thurrock regular opportunities to experience excellent arts and culture both inside and outside of school.

“We also want to see the Creative industries Innovation Hub grow and develop further attracting more innovative and creative businesses to come to Thurrock.

“Let’s shout about what Thurrock can offer.”