Supporting a Place-based Creative Economy: Insights from UK and Thailand

This report is based on commissioned research by British Council Thailand in collaboration with Creative Economy Agency. It provides an overview on the UK and Thai contexts in relation to how a place-based creative economy is supported, governed and funded by drawing on best practice examples from both countries. Our case studies draw from a range of different geographic regions ranging from rural to urban contexts. Our Thai case studies include the northeast city of Khon Kaen and southern cities of Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla (Old Town). The case studies from the UK cover Scotland, the southwest region of Cornwall and northeast England, covering Newcastle and Northumberland.

Our findings reveal the importance of having joined up policies, structures, funding and governance from national to local levels that speak to local priorities and contexts. Having a national policy on the creative economy is important because it provides a clear direction for the government’s investment in the creative sector. This can help stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and foster cultural development. However, it is equally important to adopt a place-based approach supported by and embedded in local governments that can understand the unique needs and characteristics of their region and address them accordingly. This can lead to the development of more targeted and effective policies that cater to local industries and communities. Additionally, we found that anchor institutions such as a university or a local community interest group can play a critical role in enabling and connecting local and national actors in the creative economy. These institutions can provide resources, expertise, and networking opportunities, which can help to drive innovation, collaboration, and growth in the sector.

Overall, a combination of national policy, local government, and anchor institutions can create a sustainable creative and cultural ecosystem that nurtures the creative economy and benefits society as a whole.