Thriving

Mission Three

Inclusive, with access to culture, leisure and visitor opportunities

Inclusivity is at the heart of this mission. Our goal is to showcase Bolton’s identity, diversity, and outstanding assets so everyone can participate in the cultural, leisure and visitor experiences our borough offers.

Culture Leisure Visitor offer

Bolton’s rich cultural heritage, green spaces, sports offer and vibrant events shape who we are as a community. This mission is about strengthening these experiences, improving access for all residents, and celebrating what makes Bolton unique.

What success looks like

An accessible culture offer that celebrates Bolton

By 2030

  • More people are engaging in Bolton’s vibrant cultural, food and drink offer, and cultural leadership is strong, connected, and diverse.

By 2035

  • Bolton is a recognised cultural hub with sustained growth in the offer and engagement, and a reputation for community-led cultural projects.

By 2040

  • Bolton is a national ‘go to’ destination for its unique culture, food and drink offer, where all residents have equitable opportunity for high quality cultural experiences.

A wider range of sports and leisure opportunities

By 2030

  • A growing number of residents engage in active lifestyles, leading to improved self‑reported health and wellbeing outcomes.

By 2035

  • Health and wellbeing is embedded within Bolton’s sports, leisure and physical activity programmes, promoting long-term participation.

By 2040

  • All residents have equal access to leisure facilities and green spaces, contributing to a significant improvement in mental and physical health.

A bold Bolton Story to tell

By 2030

  • A strong Bolton brand identity which showcases our cultural highlights, local heritage, and visitor attractions.

By 2035

  • Bolton will be recognised as one of the North West’s top visitor destinations, known for its vibrant culture, landscapes, and warm hospitality.

By 2040

  • Bolton will have an expanded reach and reputation as a visitor destination across the UK.

How we’ll deliver it

  • Improve access to culture, leisure and visitor experiences for all residents.
  • Strengthen Bolton’s cultural infrastructure and events programme.
  • Promote physical activity and inclusive sports participation.
  • Develop Bolton’s brand identity and national reputation.
  • Enhance green spaces and natural assets as visitor destinations.

Programmes & initiatives

Culture & Heritage Programme

Investment in theatres, museums, festivals and community-led culture.

Leisure & Wellbeing Programme

Inclusive sports opportunities and expanded leisure participation programmes.

Bolton Story & Visitor Growth

Brand development, ambassador programme and visitor attraction strategy.

Who we’ll work with

Cultural organisations Sports clubs Tourism partners Community groups Education providers

Downloads

Bolton2040 Inclusive Graphics Pack

Visuals to use as part of the Inclusive mission segment (Mission 3).

Download

Case study (TBC)

TBC

— 2026