Opportunities
Threats
→Targeted activities for international visitors – the strengths
of the region could serve as the ideal platform for targeted
activities and facilitate an increased international dimension.
This would help generate revenue through cultural tourism and
increase opportunities for international exchange.
→Local tourism – the various heritage sites, substantial
countryside, agrarian economy and seaside attractions could
all provide opportunities for communal sharing among local
residents and visitors. Such rich cultural diversity could
translate into a more targeted strategy leading to events
interlinked with specific sites and audience demographics.
→Use of available theatres, libraries and town halls – the public
infrastructure and spaces which are available for the localities
could be better utilised by the community and the creatives
to develop tailored initiatives for the region. Public spaces
managed by the Local Councils could serve as the ideal places to
organise knowledge-sharing sessions and meet-ups.
→ A high percentage of residents are interested in being involved
in organised cultural events – the Cultural Participation Survey
(Arts Council Malta, 2017) revealed that there is evidence
of strong interest from the community to engage in diverse
cultural activities. A more inclusive cultural plan, drawn up with
the direct engagement of the local stakeholders, could help
encourage greater engagement and participation.
→Overdevelopment – the rapid recent increase in the population
has put extra strain on the already limited resources of the
localities, with the risk of other resources across the region
being neglected.
→A rise in the number of people risking poverty and social
deprivation – this makes it even more important to develop
inclusive and participatory cultural activities and to leverage
culture as a resource for social and economic development.
Pjazza Toni Bajada on the 8 September.
Naxxar, 2022. Photo by Clifford Galea
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North Regional Cultural Strategy