I’m excited to share an exclusive preview of a vibrant and inclusive series of free arts and cultural activities coming to Wokingham Borough in 2025. These events are designed to strengthen our connection with the natural world and raise awareness about the climate emergency.
For the first time ever, our council is partnering with Bath Spa University, the University of Reading, and Grant Associates to bring the award-winning Forest of Imagination to our borough. As a Liberal Democrat, I’m proud to support a project that so clearly reflects the values of our party and our wonderful Wokingham community.
Thanks to funding we’ve unlocked from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, we’re delivering a project that brings people together from across the borough. This fund supports community investment, local business, people, and skills—all helping to boost pride in place and increase life chances for everyone in Wokingham Borough.
In the lead-up to the main event, arts and culture workshops have already been taking place in schools and community spaces across the borough. These creative sessions—led by professional artists and educators—are helping to shape the final installations and experiences that will feature in the showcase. It’s been fantastic to see such strong engagement from young people and local residents.
The Forest of Imagination 2025 also embodies our Community Vision’s Six Ambitions:
– Living healthy and independent lives
– Protecting and improving our places
– Economic success that everyone is part of
– Making it easy for people to access what they need
– Building and maintaining great communities
– Providing fair opportunity for everyone
At its heart, Forest of Imagination 2025 is a celebration of nature-themed art and cultural experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds. The programme culminates in a four-day celebration at our flagship Dinton Pastures Country Park from Thursday, May 22 to Sunday, May 25, 2025.
This exciting showcase will be widely publicised—please spread the word to friends and neighbours. The event will feature immersive sensory installations co-created by professional artists, schools, and community groups. Visitors can also enjoy participatory workshops, performances, and digital experiences that help foster a deeper connection to nature.
We’re especially proud that this is the first time Forest of Imagination will take place outside of Bath. This initiative highlights Wokingham Borough’s growing role in the arts and culture sector—locally, regionally, and nationally. It also gives our children and young people inspiring new ways to engage with creativity and the environment.
We’re thrilled to be working with so many schools and cultural organisations to bring this exciting programme to life. Join us in celebrating the power of imagination, nature, and the arts in shaping our future.
By Cllr Mark Ashwell
