In November 2024, four delegates from Cheltenham visited Annecy to discuss future work programmes and learn more about the institutions and organisations in Annecy with the aim of developing collaborative work across both towns. Chair of CIPA, Cllr Angie Boyes and Cllr Martin Horwood, the cabinet member for economic development, wellbeing and culture were joined by Ian George, co-CEO of Cheltenham Festivals and Andrew Lansley, head of innovation at Cheltrenham Festivals.
The visit included visits to the Turbines Sciences where they were able to discuss the Cheltenham Science Festival and gain useful links with France, visits to the Papeteries Images Factory where the delegates were shown around the CITIA (Image and Creative Industries – Economic Hub) to gain a further understanding of this excellent facility. The delegates also visited the Gobelins Film Animation School where they explored exchanges with film students in Gloucestershire.
The delegates also met with Mayor, François Astorg to discuss common challenges from a political and local government perspective.
The visit also included a bi-lateral meeting with the Jazz au Carrés to discuss opportunities between both Jazz Festivals, the Brise Glace venue to exchange views on the importance of youth and music and a working meeting at the Conservatoire to information share about festivals, sustainability and accessibility.
It was a hugely successful visit and the first of its kind to include delegates from the Festivals. We hope that a lot of collaborative projects will develop as a result.
Cheltenham International Partnerships 