Staffordshire
The county of Staffordshire was perceived as being ‘lost’ between Manchester and Birmingham, lacking in confidence, insular, unable to easily attract a younger demographic and people didn’t know why to consider it as a place to be. The area has a proud industrial heritage and great opportunities in a post Covid world yet was unable to present itself in a dynamic way or bring stakeholders together to help with that.
The County Council have made a significant financial commitment to place marketing and the progress in a short period of time is remarkable. A Place Board of key influencers has been established, the approach had a high-profile launch towards the end of 2020, an ambassadors scheme has been initiated and a senior Place Manager appointed. Already new relationships and collaborations are being built within but more importantly outside the county. There are even going to be motorway signs carrying the new Staffordshire brand in the near future!
thinkingplace’s extensive experience of delivering placemaking programmes across the UK, understanding of the challenges and opportunities, and creative vision has resulted in the development of a bold and vibrant story and identity for Staffordshire that the county can be justly proud of, and puts us in an excellent position to develop and thrive over the coming years.
