Lichfield to host international placemaking conference

Lichfield is to host an international event highlighting placemaking across the UK and abroad.

The City Nation Place conference will take place at Lichfield Cathedral on 19 September.

The event brings together leaders to focus on improving the attractiveness and reputation of places through building civic pride and attracting visitors and investment.

The city was chosen after a successful bid by We Are Staffordshire, Lichfield Cathedral and Lichfield District Council.

Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and We Are Staffordshire board member Cllr Philip White said: “It’s excellent news that we’ve been chosen as a host for the UK City Nation Place event, which our team has worked hard to attract and which will be another accolade for our county and the city of Lichfield.

“We’re proud that the iconic Lichfield Cathedral will welcome delegates from the UK and internationally.

“As members of City Nation Place, We Are Staffordshire is at the heart of an organisation which can promote the county on a global stage.

“City Nation Place provides a unique link and platform that stretches across oceans and time zones, allowing us to come together as peers to tackle the big issues of the day – and work towards the solutions of tomorrow – so we can strive to be the best custodians and marketers of our wonderful places.”

Cllr Philip White, Staffordshire County Council, said: “We Are Staffordshire recently became a City Nation Place Champion – a network of decision makers from around the world alongside founding partners New Zealand, Tasmania, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and the Western Cape in South Africa.

Clare Dewhirst, director of City Nation Place, said: “As we progress the conversation on the potential power of place branding to drive place economies, we’re delighted to be bringing the 2024 UK conference to Lichfield.

“We Are Staffordshire has approached the development of its place brand strategy with innovation and creativity and Lichfield is a city with heritage and ambition, so we know that, as hosts, they will add to the value of the agenda.”

Lichfield District Council’s leader, Cllr Doug Pullen, added: “We are honoured and excited that Lichfield has been chosen to host City Nation Place UK in September.

“We are proud of our district’s rich history and heritage and look forward to sharing them with delegates at this important conference.”