sustainable penrith indicators

Sustainability Indicators
 

Principle 6:

Recognise and build on the distinctive characteristics of the City, including its human and cultural values, history and natural systems

Objective:

We value and support our distinctive characteristics, including our cultural diversity

Indicator PC20:

Proportion of residents participating in cultural activities and events


2006/2007 Data

Why use this indicator?

A sense of belonging is key to building strong and socially sustainable communities. A community that exhibits high rates of participation is more supportive and cohesive, and more resilient to negative impacts.

Participation in cultural activities and events provides increased opportunities for people to get to know each other and develop relationships. Such participation provides opportunities for residents to recognize diversity in their local communities and can generate trust in others and relationships based on reciprocity and common norms. Increased community participation also has a broad range of benefits for people’s health and well being. Participation is therefore both an ends in itself and a means to achieve other outcomes. For example, being involved in group sports or recreation enables you to get to know people and experience working with others. It also promotes good health and decreases the likelihood of a range of diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes.

This indicator will assist Council in the effective planning for the provision of facilities, activities and events, suited to the needs of our Communities.

What is the current situation?

The 2008 Strategic Community Survey indicated 47% of respondents attended a community event or festival in the past 12 months compared to 40% of the respondents in the 2002 Survey.

In relation to cultural activities and events the results from the 2008 Survey compared with the PLANS data suggest that participation in planned cultural activities and community events is increasing. Attendance at museums, galleries and performing arts centres has also increased from 27% in 2002 to 35% in 2008.

The development and implementation of the Cultural Planning Framework and Cultural Development Action Plan establishes a foundation for a comprehensive and integrated approach to Cultural Planning and Development across the City and region. Scheduled for implementation over four years from 2007-2011, the Cultural Development Action Plan lists the specific actions required, including the design and management of the Penrith Valley Cultural Precinct, identifying opportunities to support cultural industry networks and clusters, continuing the development of Magnetic Places and developing a Public Domain Strategy and Plan.

What is the desired trend?

An increase in the proportion of residents participating in cultural activities and events.

What does this mean for the Sustainability of Penrith City?

Interaction between individuals with similar interests and values provides for the development of supportive relationships which can minimise feelings of isolation and separation within communities.


2007 - 2008 Response - On Track


 

 

Status Legend

 

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