The town-wide interpretation strategy for Wirksworth has been finished and delivered.
Bill initiated and facilitated the creation of a comprehensive interpretation strategy for the historic town of Wirksworth, at the southern tip of the Peak District, on behalf of Wirksworth Civic Society.
The strategy was produced with the input from a range of partners to make it a truly collaborative venture. Eschewing top-down interpretive planning, Bill took a partnership approach based on consultation, discussion and feedback to ensure that it is owned by all of the organisations involved in interpreting Wirksworth’s cultural and natural heritage. Partner organisations range from the main tourist attractions, such as Ecclesbourne Valley Railway and the Wirksworth Heritage Centre, to organisations where interpretation is not central to their rationale, eg Wirksworth Traders Association.
The strategy is conceived as a dynamic document which may change over time, and the aims of the strategy are being progressed by the Wirksworth Heritage Interpretation Partnership (WHIP). Recommendations from the strategy are already being implemented, with a number of grant applications being submitted to seek resources.
The strategy was commissioned by Wirksworth Civic Society, and funded by DerwentWISE and Wirksworth Town Council.