Cultural Regeneration through Heritage

Hastings, Heritage and Local History

The important role that heritage and local history has played in urban, economic, social and cultural development has been acknowledged for some time, informing government policy on sustainable ‘self-renewal’ in recent years.

In Hastings, the contribution heritage has made to the project of economic, social and cultural ‘regeneration’ has been notable, bringing together a variety of groups to improve the town’s economy, tourism and engagement with local history. In some instances, this has had tangible benefits, with East Sussex libraries, the heritage sector, community groups, schools, local historians and academics rallying around specific heritage projects to boost the town’s cultural tourism. This, in itself, has sought to foster a sense of community ‘belonging’, which has stronger social, cultural and educative links.

This half-day forum brings together heritage professionals, academics and local historians to explore the extent of these developments, linking them to a bigger national picture in terms of government policy and the politics of heritage status. The forum will raise interesting questions related to historical narrative, authenticity, accuracy and heritage consumption. It will offer differing perspectives on ‘regeneration’, ‘community’ and ‘belonging’, noting the way in which heritage and local history have become increasingly commodified and contested.

Speakers and papers include:

• Professor Fred Gray, University of Sussex, ‘Whose Heritage’
• Jason Wood, Director of Heritage Consultancy Services, ‘Democratizing Heritage’
• Professor John Nauright, University of Brighton, ‘History, Performativity, Locality and Identities: Sussex Bonfire Nights'
• Beatrice Rapley, Learning and Education Manager, Hastings Pier Charity, ‘The People’s Pier’: Heritage as a Catalyst for Regeneration’
• Kevin Boorman, Head of Communications and Marketing, Hastings Borough Council, ‘”1066 and all that”: How 1066 is Used to Market Heritage in Hastings
• Dr Paul Gilchrist, University of Brighton, ‘Heritage Trails and Coastal Regeneration’
• Dr Nicola Smith, University of Brighton, Commemoration and World War I
• Kristin O’ Donnell, University of Brighton, ‘Consuming Heritage: How Visual Culture Contributes to a Sense of Place’

Refreshments are provided throughout, with wine and snacks at 6.30. The forum is free of charge, but you should register in advance at: A.Callaghan2@brighton.ac.uk. The academic contact is Dr Deborah Madden at: D.Madden2@brighton.ac.uk.