Sustainable communities are places where people want to live and work, now and in the future. They meet the diverse needs of existing and future residents, are sensitive to their environment, and contribute to a high quality of life. They are safe and inclusive, well planned, built and run, and offer equality of opportunity and good services for all.

Culture can build sustainable communities and with our cultural agencies we are working together to ensure that culture plays its part in the plans for regeneration and housing growth across the UK. 

where we live! is a collaboration between the national Government agencies with responsibility for cultural development across sport, arts, heritage, the built environment and museums, libraries and archives.

Over 2006 we will be working with key partners like the Department for Communities and Local Government and local authorities to articulate the value of culture to sustainable community planning and devise strategies to provide the full range of cultural benefits for as many communities as possible.

Particular priority will be given to the designated Growth Areas and Housing Market Renewal Areas identified in the Government's Sustainable Communities' Plan. 

The Cultural Connections website, produced by the DCMS in partnership with the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA), provides a way for those in local government to share best practice and learn about the best way to use culture and sport in meeting the needs of local communities.

It is a unique bank of knowledge, with easy access to case studies, core legislation and key policy documents.