A flower shop in a traditional European-style building with black and white timber framing, located on a street with two people walking by. The shop has a blue and white striped awning and displays colorful flowers and plants outside. There are balloons attached to the upper windows.

Quality of Life

We want Newark to be the best market town to live in – where culture is part of everyone’s lives, where everyone has access to cultural experiences, and where creativity informs the way we live. We want to celebrate Newark as a place that nurtures talent and cares for communities.

A white plastic chair and a small white table against a blue brick wall with a weathered, corrugated metal overhang above.

Activating Spaces

There are spaces, often with extraordinary histories that need resourceful thinking and imaginative approaches. Some of the most down-at-heel spaces are stages for extraordinary creativity.

A man wearing gloves is holding a large piece of wood, partially hidden by the table in front of him. The wood appears to be in the process of being shaped or carved, with woodworking tools visible on the table.

Deep Glow

Newark is a place of deep glow rather than surface shine. Unlocking its gems and telling the stories of world class creativity is the opportunity. Connecting people, celebrating talent, increasing participation and building capacity will inspire change.

A smiling woman sitting on the steps of a boutique store, holding a small dog, with an open signboard placed outside, showcasing various clothing items in the window display and colorful flowers near the entrance.

Local Strengths

Made in Newark will look to support communities that are already doing great things to thrive. This means developing a detailed understanding of what’s happening in different communities to build on what’s already here.

People browsing at an outdoor market on a sunny day, with children and adults looking at various items for sale.

Getting Together

Creativity brings people together. Everyone can be involved. Made in Newark will build opportunities to make, talk, celebrate our communities and their creativity.

People working on a cluttered desk with papers, scissors, and office supplies.

Tourists and Visitors

Bringing cultural organisations, community groups, youth leaders, creatives, and artists together, to make waves that will impact far beyond Newark’s boundary. Welcoming audiences from the East Midlands and beyond, and promoting models of best practice to share with other towns will be the foundation of the bid.

A Song for Newark.

My Dear Friend, written and performed by Ruby Boyd

Ruby Boyd shares a story that will resonate deeply with listeners, as she invites us to connect with each other and reflect together on the value of the town we call home.

Seeing a deer running through a market place is striking and unexpected, reminding us that the boundaries between town and nature have shifted. Through her lyrics, the deer becomes a symbol encouraging us to pause, reflect, and talk with one another about what has been lost and what still remains. It reminds us that communities are not just buildings and roads, but shared spaces shaped by memory, nature, and the people that live in Newark.