At our latest Culture Council meeting – and the final in our Meet the Deputy Mayor series for 2025 – we were delighted to welcome Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture.
Reflecting on 25 years of the Mayoralty, Justine reminded us that partnership has been at the heart of everything we’ve achieved. From transport to housing, from regeneration to skills, collaboration has driven progress. Yet, amid the big-ticket priorities that often dominate headlines, culture can sometimes be overlooked That’s a mistake. As Justine put it, culture is the golden thread that binds our communities, shapes our identity, and makes London the vibrant, successful city it is today.
The Culture Council itself is a valuable forum – crossing sectors and speaking for the whole economy – and together we explored how to build a positive narrative and make the wider economic case for culture. We talked about the role infrastructure plays in making culture physically accessible – the Elizabeth line being a great example. We also discussed the importance of making culture inclusive and welcoming, giving people the confidence to enter spaces that can feel intimidating and ensuring young people see the opportunities available in the cultural sector. Culture Mile BID shows what’s possible, but there’s more to do.
We also discussed the potential of better data sharing to strengthen the case for culture and unlock funding, and the proposed tourism levy which is under consultation until 18 February.
Finally, we asked Justine what cultural London might be missing. One idea she shared was a bold proposal is on the table to establish an international centre for Creative Arts alongside the Museum of London in Smithfield – a home for major events like London Fashion Week. If this goes ahead, it would be a huge win for London and a powerful statement about the capital’s global cultural ambition.
Culture isn’t an add-on. It’s a foundation – and key to driving economic growth. As we plan for the next 25 years, let’s keep that golden thread strong – weaving culture into every conversation about London’s future.
With thanks to Culture Mile BID for sponsoring this session and their support of the work of the Culture Council.
The Culture Mile BID is a district in the Square Mile brimming with cultural creativity, commercial vibrancy and a strong sense of community. Backed by local businesses, the Culture Mile BID is working to make this unique part of the City of London an even better place to work, visit, and invest.
Culture Mile BID launched the Arts for All report at the Barbican Centre earlier this year, calling for urgent action to make arts and culture accessible for all Londoners. Research by Centre for London, part-funded by Culture Mile BID, reveals stark inequalities in cultural engagement, driven by barriers such as ticket costs, travel expenses, and safety concerns. The report calls for tangible solutions, including a national arts pass for under-25s, to unlock London’s cultural potential.
