20/10/2008
Colchester’s heritage and culture goes under the spotlight

''An entirely new format – very exciting and effective at getting people to talk.''

''There were lots of surprises and learning and I was impressed with the energy, vitality and ideas generated.''

''Thank you for being so bold – it was an inspiration.''

These are just some of the views expressed by delegates who took part in an exciting event to debate the future of heritage in culture in Colchester.

More than 100 people joined together to share their ideas at the event, hosted by Colchester2020.

The Open Space concept was used to ensure the broad cross section of businesses, residents, voluntary organisations, artists, writers, councillors and others who attended had a chance to share their views.

Open Space events give the people who attend the opportunity to set the agenda for the day and lead the discussion, based on a theme – in this case the long-term future of heritage and culture in the Borough.

At the start of the day everyone was asked to put forward the topics they would like to discuss. These ranged from ‘How do we preserve, restore and improve our town centre?’ to ‘How can we celebrate our Roman history’ and from ‘Is pub and club culture part of heritage and culture?’ to ‘How can we include children and young people in discussions about their future?’.

These topics were then divided in to sessions and delegates decided which of these they would like to take part in.

Notes were made so ideas and actions can be taken forward following the event. These will be published on this site over the coming week.

Dee Evans, Colchester2020 Joint Lead Partner for Heritage and Culture, said: ''The people of Colchester are rightly passionate about the future of heritage and culture in the borough and it is great that such a diverse range of people gave up their time to share their views.''

''The best thing about Open Space events is that they encourage everyone to put aside organisational pressures and individual concerns for one day and work together towards establishing some shared goals for the future.''

Everyone has the opportunity to share their views. Open Space events give everyone the chance to suggest topics for discussion. Delegates then pick which discussions they would like to join.