The shortlist for the UK City of Culture for 2029 has been revealed, with Blackpool, Milton Keynes, Sheffield and Wrexham all in the running for the honour.
Awarded every four years, the title is currently held by Bradford. Last year the city created over 6,500 events, more than 80 per cent of which were free, and the programme led to capital investment for over 30 local cultural organisations. According to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), over 88,000 residents took part in key projects throughout the year.
Four contenders and their funding
Each of the four shortlisted contenders will receive at least £125,000 to take forward their bid for the chance to win the title and a prize fund of £10 million. As part of their bids, each city was asked to state how they would use culture as a catalyst to transform their place and the lives of communities through boosting growth, opportunities and pride.
The UK City of Culture expert advisory panel, chaired by Brookside and Hollyoaks creator Sir Phil Redmond, recommended each of the four contenders.
Panel chair on the shortlist
Sir Phil said: "Once again there is a hard choice ahead. The four places on the shortlist continue to demonstrate both the variety and strength of creative ambition across the UK."
He added: "Each place represents a different view, or aspect, epitomising what culture is, the sum of all we do together, and while each approaches it differently, they all share the common aim of reminding the rest of the UK of who they are, where they are and why they are worth visiting."
Sir Phil said he looked forward to visiting each contender along with the rest of the Advisory Panel in the near future.
Who missed out
Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Portsmouth and Swindon failed to make it past the longlist. The next UK City of Culture will be crowned following the shortlist stage, with the winning city set to take on the title in 2029.
