The initiative, known as Beò! 2029 – meaning ‘alive’ or ‘living’ in Gaelic – aimed to showcase the cultural richness of the entire Highland region. While naturally disappointed, The Highland Council expressed immense pride in the journey and the new partnerships forged.
Cllr Bill Lobban, Convener of The Highland Council, extended thanks to all who supported the bid. He highlighted the establishment of the Creative Highland board, tasked with strengthening the region's creative industries sector, which is the third largest employer in the Highlands. Furthermore, over 100 artists, creative practitioners, arts organisations, and cultural bodies have been brought together through a permanent Highland Cultural Assembly to shape a shared vision for the future of arts and culture in the area.
These achievements are considered lasting and will continue beyond the bid process. The momentum generated will be maintained, with the Council committed to supporting the Creative Highland board and Highland Cultural Assembly in developing a long-term arts and culture strategy for the Highlands.
“"Of course we are disappointed. But the reason we bid has not gone away. The Highlands is a place of living, contemporary culture, and putting our Bid together has shown just how much talent, ambition and appetite there is here. The partnerships, ideas and confidence this bid has built are too valuable to lose, and we intend to carry them forward."
The bid team plans to seek further feedback from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and will collaborate with the Creative Highland board to outline the next steps in the coming weeks.
