Carly Heath becomes Bristol’s first nighttime economy adviser

Bristol’s first nighttime economy adviser promises to help the recovery of a sector which she calls “the beating heart of Bristol’s culture”.

Taking up the role at the start of April, Carly Heath has the not insignificant task of leading the city’s entertainment and hospitality industries’ post-pandemic recovery.

The part-time position – which is called a czar in cities such as London and Manchester – has a pro rata salary of £50,000 as part of Bristol’s City Office, within the mayor’s office at City Hall.

Heath, 38, is a co-founder and trustee of Brisfest, worked in digital marketing at the venue formerly known as the Colston Hall, and founded marketing agency Don’t Panic Bristol while still at university.

She has also worked on hundreds of music events, was part of the research team at UWE Bristol studying the effects of Covid-19 on cultural industries, briefly worked as the marketing communications manager at the Royal Photographic Society, and helped deliver Bristol24/7’s bespoke website and membership scheme with her digital agency Rakkit.

Heath recently took to Twitter to say that Bristol’s sexual entertainment venues should not be banned, the opposite take to Bristol mayor Marvin Rees who has backed plans to ban lap-dancing clubs in the city.

https://twitter.com/Carlybag/status/1366843203119443975

Speaking after her new role was revealed, Heath said: “I’m honoured to be appointed as Bristol’s nighttime economy adviser. I have passionately worked in the industry my whole career and look forward to advocating Bristol’s beautifully rich after-dark culture.

“This position is a unique opportunity to amplify the voice of our nighttime economy and connect with businesses, city officials, developers, and the wider public.

“Promoting a vibrant nightlife is important for tourism, but also for the social fabric of the city as a space to congregate and share ideas.

“Independent restaurants, venues, bars and clubs are the beating heart of Bristol’s culture. I’m passionate about the businesses that operate from 6pm to 6am and I look forward to helping guide Bristol’s nighttime economy as we move on from the challenges of lockdown.”

Marti Burgess, co-chair of the Bristol @ Night panel and co-owner of Lakota, said: “It was clear from both her application and interview that Carly has a deep understanding of Bristol’s nighttime economy but also how it crosses over into the wider culture sector.

“She showed an infectious enthusiasm and passion for a sector which is so important to Bristol’s identity.

“I was also impressed with her awareness of the challenges the sector faces and ideas on how the city could support the nighttime economy.”

Michael Kill, chief executive officer of the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), added: “Bristol has established itself as one of the important cultural hubs of this country, producing some amazing experiences within venues, festivals and creative spaces.

“This amazing infrastructure has culminated in a pipeline of talent which will serve to further enhance the cultural status of the region.

“We welcome the appointment of the nightlife advisor for Bristol and have been extremely pleased to be given the opportunity to take part in the selection process. We look forward to supporting the role both nationally and regionally.”

Main photo: Bristol City Council

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