In 2025, building on the success of the first two phases of the North East Culture Collective, this next phase shifts the focus to empowering communities in Aberdeen’s most socially and economically deprived areas. Through creativity and culture, we aim to support residents in Tillydrone, Woodside, and Seaton to actively shape the decisions that impact their lives. 

In Phases 1 and 2, creative practitioners collaborated with organisations and communities across the region on co-designed projects. Now, in Phase 3, we will commission a series of pilot projects in these three neighbourhoods. These projects will explore how cultural activities can engage people in meaningful conversations about their community’s priorities, inspire local decision-making, and bring those priorities to life. 

Our approach will draw from proven practices across the UK, blending that knowledge with the unique insights and experiences of the communities we work with to develop tailored, locally relevant solutions for Aberdeen.

Ultimately, our vision is for communities to have greater power and control over the decisions that shape their lives. We aspire to see systems that are more grassroots, community-driven, and grounded in local voices. By embracing creativity and culture as vital tools for change, we aim to support communities in driving meaningful progress. While these are long-term goals, we hope this project will play a significant role in moving closer to that vision.