The transformative role of arts and culture in placemaking, regeneration and economic renewal will take centre stage at a major seminar this autumn. The Impact of Culture in the City will be held at Ulster University’s Belfast campus and is delivered in partnership with Ulster University Business School, Cathedral Quarter BID and Belfast One BID.

The event will explore how investment in arts and culture, from public art and creative programming to heritage, music, storytelling and cultural experiences, can help create vibrant places where people want to live, work, learn, visit and invest. Through a mix of ideas, evidence and real-world case studies, delegates will examine the growing role of creativity in shaping thriving towns and cities.

The keynote speaker is leading cultural strategist Tim Jones, Director of TJ Culture Ltd, whose work has helped shape cultural strategy, regeneration and placemaking initiatives for major sites including Heathrow Airport, Wembley Park and Boston’s ‘Avenue of the Arts’.

He will be joined by Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan, University Provost at Ulster University, and a panel of leading voices from the public, private and cultural sectors to explore how culture can drive regeneration, strengthen local economies and create places with lasting social and economic impact.

Speaking about the event, Brona Whittaker, CEO at Arts & Business NI commented; “As our towns and cities face growing social, economic and environmental challenges, understanding the role of culture as a catalyst for placemaking has never been more important. Through our work with the arts sector across Northern Ireland, we’ve seen neglected underpasses become vibrant urban galleries, creative street activations bring people together and support local businesses, and public art create a stronger sense of place and pride. Our towns and cities are more than collections of buildings, arts and culture provide the vital ingredient that creates identity, connection, and a lasting sense of belonging.”

Ulster University Provost, Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan commented: “Ulster University Business School is proud to partner in this event, recognising the vital role that culture plays in creating thriving, sustainable urban environments. Culture works alongside business to generate social value, support economic growth, and enhance the local and international reputation of our towns and cities. We look forward to contributing to a conversation that brings together research, policy and practice to explore the role of culture in shaping vibrant, resilient places.”

Tabitha McDowell, CQ BID Director added: “The arts are a powerful driver of both our local economy and our community, creating places where people want to spend time and connect. By investing in arts and culture, we’re helping to increase footfall, raise the profile of local businesses and create experiences that encourage people to stay longer, explore more and return again. It’s a key part of our commitment to promoting and animating the Cathedral Quarter, ensuring it continues to thrive as a dynamic and welcoming destination.”

Martina Connolly, CEO at Belfast One said: “We are pleased to support this event and look forward to contributing to conversations that explore how collaborative investment in creativity can strengthen our economy and enrich the visitor experience. Belfast One aims to create a thriving, dynamic, and attractive environment that benefits both businesses and the wider community, and we work strategically to embed arts and culture bringing creativity and community voice into public spaces through activations and public art. ”

The Impact of Culture in the City takes place on 18 November 2026, and registrations are now open. Book your place here.