A new campaign aimed at changing how Chichester is seen beyond the district has been launched, with businesses and organisations being invited to represent the area.

Called ‘Chichester’s Story’, the initiative was unveiled at Pallant House Gallery on Wednesday (September 16) and is intended to give the city and wider district a more consistent identity when it is promoted to potential businesses, investors, visitors and workers.

The project is part of Chichester District Council’s wider regeneration strategy. Its backers hope a stronger profile for the area will help attract investment and talent, support existing businesses, and contribute to job creation.

Rather than being a traditional marketing campaign, the initiative is designed to give organisations across the district a shared way of talking about Chichester and its surrounding communities.

A new campaign aimed at changing how Chichester is seen beyond the district has been launched, with businesses and organisations being invited to represent the area. Photo: Allan Hutchings.

placeholder image — A new campaign aimed at changing how Chichester is seen beyond the district has been launched, with businesses and organisations being invited to represent the area. Photo: Allan Hutchings.

The council says the identity has been shaped by local input, including six workshops, more than 40 conversations with businesses, residents and other organisations, and a public survey which received more than 500 responses.

Among those supporting the project are Chichester Chamber of Commerce, Chichester Festival Theatre, Goodwood, Thesis Technology and Chichester BID.

A new Place Board and Ambassador Programme are also being established. The board will oversee the campaign, while ambassadors will be encouraged to promote Chichester through their own businesses, networks and organisations.

Councillor Adrian Moss, leader of Chichester District Council, said the initiative is about building on what the area already has.

“Chichester is an exceptional place, bringing together heritage, culture, innovation, natural beauty and a strong community spirit,” he said.

“Through this work, we want to help businesses, residents and organisations tell a shared story about what makes our area special.”

For some, the appeal of the district is already clear.

Ana Palmer, managing director of Thesis Technology, said Chichester’s combination of connectivity and quality of life makes it an attractive place to live and work.

“It’s strong infrastructure and proximity to London and other major cities make it highly connected, while its unique mix of countryside, coastline and culture offers an exceptional quality of life,” she said.

She added that the district has a “thriving business community”, supported by the University.

Music entrepreneur Cadyn Lewis, who runs KDYM Music and a record label, said he chose Chichester after receiving support from the council’s economic development team.

“I love Chichester - it’s a place that inspires creativity,” he said, pointing to the city’s music scene and the opportunities it offers emerging artists.

“Chichester is a special place. It’s warm, supportive and full of opportunity.”

The launch also reflects a broader attempt to position Chichester alongside places that have used a strong sense of identity as part of their economic development efforts.

Helen Marshall, chair of Chichester BID, said the project has been shaped by collaboration between organisations across the area.

“What has been achieved in such a short time is a real credit to the strong group of organisations and individuals who have helped shape Chichester’s story,” she said.

The next stage will see the Place Board and ambassador network established, with the aim of creating what Ms Marshall called a “Team Chichester” approach.