Lead Councillor for Heritage and the Arts, Cllr Nikki Nelson-Smith, explains: “We want to hear from as many groups and individuals as possible, from professionals and amateurs, to the community and voluntary creative sectors, including anyone who performs, manages, creates, works in, participates in, or just enjoys the arts.

“We would like to find out what you think about arts development provision locally and also get feedback on our draft Arts Development and Public Art strategies. We are keen to hear from people of all ages - your opinions will help shape future arts development in Guildford so we provide opportunities to meet the needs of our residents, customers and the community,” adds Cllr Nelson-Smith.

The ‘arts’ include performing and visual arts, for example, combined arts, circus arts, craft, dance, fashion and the creative industries, festivals, literature, music and theatre, together with film, media and digital arts and much more. ‘Public art’ is the process of artists working with the local community to develop temporary or permanent pieces of art that are either stand-alone features or integrated into the environment.

Your feedback from the consultation will shape and direct the Arts Development Strategy and Public Art Strategy. Both strategies will be available after they have been considered by the Council’s Executive in December.

You can have your say in our online survey until 12 noon on Friday 28 July. Respondents have the chance to win a month’s free membership of Guildford Spectrum (up to £50) or tickets for G Live, The Electric Theatre or any performance promoted by our Tourist Information Centre, worth up to £50.

There is a consultation workshop for people working in, taking part in, or interested in the arts on Wednesday 5 July 6pm - 9pm. Paper copies of the online survey are available. For more information about the consultation event or if you would like a paper copy of the survey please contact [email protected].

Published on Thursday 29 June.