A new Centre of Excellence for Heritage Innovation has officially opened at the University of Portsmouth, marking a significant step forward in promoting the heritage sector. The launch event took place on October 17, 2023, and saw local organizations come together to celebrate this initiative, which aims to foster collaboration between academia and the heritage industry.
The Centre is designed to support research and development in heritage innovation, providing resources and expertise to help organizations adapt to contemporary challenges. It will serve as a hub for professionals in the field, offering training, workshops, and networking opportunities. The goal is to enhance the sustainability and impact of heritage projects across the region and beyond.
Professor David L. Harrison, the director of the Centre, emphasized its importance during the opening ceremony. He noted that the Centre will not only focus on preserving history but also on using innovative technologies to engage new audiences. “Heritage is not just about the past; it’s about how we can use our history to inform and inspire future generations,” he stated.
The establishment of the Centre has garnered support from various stakeholders, including Arts Council England. Their involvement underscores the growing recognition of the vital role that heritage plays in cultural identity and economic growth. The Centre aims to collaborate with local museums, galleries, and cultural organizations, creating a network that will drive innovation in the sector.
Local organizations, including the Portsmouth Museum and the Historic Dockyard, are poised to benefit from this new initiative. They will have access to research findings, best practices, and innovative projects that can enhance their offerings. The collaboration is expected to result in a richer cultural experience for both residents and visitors to Portsmouth.
The opening of the Centre aligns with broader trends in heritage management, where there is an increasing push for integration of modern technology and sustainable practices. As the heritage sector faces challenges such as funding cuts and changing visitor expectations, the Centre aims to be at the forefront of finding innovative solutions.
With the Centre of Excellence for Heritage Innovation, the University of Portsmouth is positioning itself as a leader in heritage research and innovation. This initiative represents a commitment to not only preserving the past but also ensuring that heritage continues to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. The success of this Centre may well serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions, reinforcing the importance of heritage in our global community.
