Simon Opher, Labour MP for Stroud, has welcomed the launch of the new UK Town of Culture competition, saying it represents “a brilliant chance to celebrate what makes our area unique” and could “restore a real sense of pride and belonging in the place we call home.”
The competition, announced by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, forms part of the Labour Government’s mission to unlock opportunity, restore pride, and kickstart growth in every part of the country.
Targeted at small and medium-sized towns, the UK Town of Culture programme will enable communities to tell their unique story and shine a spotlight on the important role that towns play in national life.
The winning town will be awarded £3.5 million to deliver a cultural programme during the summer of 2028, celebrating what makes their town special. Shortlisted towns will receive £60,000 to help develop their full bids.
Applications will be judged on three key criteria:
- Your Story – the unique story of the town
- Culture for Everyone – how the town will design a cultural programme for all
- Making It Happen – how the town will deliver a successful programme
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “For far too long, too many people have felt left out of our national story. These competitions are our chance to change that by shining a light on the places that have shaped our cultural life but haven’t always had the recognition they deserve.
“We already know from UK City of Culture that winning, and even bidding for, these titles brings real benefits — jobs, investment, and opportunities for people to get creative and learn new skills. Now I want towns to be able to get these benefits too.
“Every place has a story worth telling, so I want to encourage towns across the UK to step forward and show us what makes them special.”
Simon Opher MP added: “This announcement really shows what our Labour Government is all about — recognising the creativity, pride and potential that runs through every one of our towns and communities.
“The Town of Culture competition is a brilliant chance for us to celebrate what makes our area unique — our artists, our venues, our small businesses, and the people who make them thrive. It’s about shining a light on the talent we’ve got here, bringing in visitors and investment, and creating good local jobs.
“It’s about celebrating who we are, giving our towns the platform and support they deserve, and helping to build a future where everyone can feel proud of where they live — where young people see opportunity on their doorstep and a real sense of belonging in the place we call home.”
The Town of Culture competition will build on the success of the UK City of Culture programme, which has already brought over £1 billion of additional investment to past host cities, creating jobs, boosting tourism and strengthening local pride.
Bradford, the current UK City of Culture, has already seen impressive results in its first six months: Over 11,000 pupils have benefitted from education programmes. More than 40,000 local people have taken part in cultural events. Over 2,000 residents have volunteered across the district. More than 4,000 people have benefitted from training programmes. Applications for Town of Culture 2028 will open shortly.
