Southwark Council appoints a Head of Culture

Howard Barnes will be heading up Southwark's arts, culture, film and events services as well as developing a new cultural plan to be called Southwark at the Centre.

"Southwark is lucky to benefit from a wealth of culture ranging from the grassroots to some of the UK's most prominent cultural landmarks" says the new Culture Head. "Our new strategy, Southwark at the Centre, takes the approach that culture can have an impact on every aspect of life in the borough, from improving the environment and reducing crime to helping people value and make sense of life."

Howard Barnes comes to Southwark after four years as Medway Council's Head of Arts.