Our partners

A Town-Wide Effort, Led in Partnership

Dartford’s bid to become a UK Town of Culture is not being developed by one organisation alone.

It is being led through the Dartford Town Centre Partnership, working in collaboration with Dartford Borough Council and a growing network of local partners.

This approach reflects what the bid is all about: shared ownership, collective ambition and community leadership.

The Role of the Town Centre Partnership

The Dartford Town Centre Partnership is leading the coordination of the bid.

Bringing together businesses, cultural organisations, community representatives and local stakeholders, the Partnership provides:

• Strategic leadership
• Cross-sector coordination
• Strong links with the town’s business community
• A focus on town centre vitality and regeneration
• Independent credibility beyond the Council

By placing the Partnership at the heart of the bid, we are signalling that this is a whole-town ambition and not simply a council-led initiative.

Our Community Arts Partner: Cohesion Plus

Cohesion Plus is a community-focused organisation dedicated to bringing people together through the power of the arts. With a strong belief that creativity can bridge divides, Cohesion Plus delivers inclusive cultural projects that celebrate shared values, inspire pride in local towns, and strengthen community identity.

By championing cultural diversity and encouraging participation from all backgrounds, the organisation uses artistic expression as a unifying force — fostering connection, understanding, and a deeper sense of belonging for everyone involved.

Working Together

Alongside the Town Centre Partnership and Dartford Borough Council, we are engaging with:

• Cultural and creative organisations
• Schools, colleges and youth groups
• Heritage groups
• Faith and community networks
• Local businesses and employers
• Voluntary and community sector organisations

These partners are helping to shape the Expression of Interest by:

• Sharing ideas and insights
• Providing endorsements
• Identifying local strengths and opportunities
• Developing stories and creative activity
• If Dartford is successfully shortlisted, this partnership network will expand further as we co-design a full Town of Culture programme.

Why Partnership Matters

The UK Town of Culture competition looks for towns that demonstrate:

• Strong local collaboration
• Community backing
• Cross-sector ambition
• Clear leadership and delivery capability

Our partnership model reflects how Dartford already works i.e. collaboratively, practically and with shared purpose.

Culture in Dartford is not confined to one venue or one organisation. It lives in businesses, community halls, schools, rehearsal rooms, high streets and public spaces.

This bid reflects that reality.

Interested in Joining the Partnership?

If your organisation would like to support the bid, provide an endorsement, or explore partnership opportunities, we would love to hear from you.

Contact the Dartford Town Centre Partnership.