Our Story - Start Thurrock

It starts with our past

Our roots are the start of powerful art, and the fuel to ignite our creativity. From the Spanish Armada to Windrush. From the speeches of Queens, to the music on the streets. From our forts to our ports. From the chalk under our feet, to the river at our heart. From our factories and industries, to the fields of our greenbelt. From Mammoths to Romans. From the world, to Thurrock.

We want to give everyone the chance to understand where we came from, and explore the past that shaped us. Our local life, global experiences and deep roots. Our family and regional histories will inspire and inform our futures. Our worlds coming together to create a louder voice, telling new stories, through fresh expression.

It starts with our people

Our people are resilient and resourceful, and we want to support those strengths with opportunity. All of us have a story to tell, and a part to play. We want to give every person in Thurrock the chance and space to express themselves, and enjoy that feeling, together.

We will be community-led. A place where everyone feels welcome and inspired. Thurrock can become a place where our people believe in their talent, and unleash the creativity in their culture and nature. Our people have the power to start cultural revolutions, and build brilliant experiences. We are more than the challenges we’ve faced. So let’s show the world who we are, where we come from, and what we have to offer.

It starts with our communities

Our communities create us and make us. They bring us, and the places we live – to life. Our towns share Thurrock, and each bring something different to our story. We’re made of industry and graft, but we’re greener than you think.

We want our spaces to express our cultures. Our towns to be more connected and creative. With booming arts and united communities. We want our joy and our energy to reach every town, every family and every person. A new beginning. The start of something special. A united community that is connected by creativity and inspired by each other. Let’s start a bold new chapter for Thurrock, together.

It starts with you

Without you we have no story, no creativity, and no identity. Start your involvement, with our support. Step up alone, or with friends. Meet with like-minds. Take inspiration and spread it. Start with your own voice, and reach many more. Start taking risks. Growing experiences. Building safe spaces. Changing perceptions.

Start surprising yourself, your streets, your people, and your families. Take the stage, and make your mark. Entertain audiences. Free minds. Learn. Start sharing ideas, flavours and expressions. Telling stories new and old. Be brave and bold. Show the world your vision. You are creative. You are cultural. You are Thurrock.