The UK government has launched a competition to find the country's first 'town of culture', with the winning town set to receive £3.5 million to develop a cultural programme in summer 2028. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced the initiative, stating that too many places have been 'written out of the national story'.
The town of culture designation follows the success of the cities of culture programme, which has boosted tourism, civic pride and access to the arts in Derry, Hull, Coventry and, this year, Bradford. The government also opened the competition for the 2029 UK city of culture, with the winner promised £10 million for the first time.
Nandy visited Bradford on Thursday to see city of culture projects, including the Turner Prize exhibition at Cartwright Hall. She told the Guardian that the vision in Bradford aligns with the government's goal of 'access to excellence', adding that 'great culture is everywhere, but the opportunity to showcase it … is not'.
The town of culture idea stems from a similar award in Greater Manchester since 2010. Officials expect towns with populations below 75,000 to apply, though larger towns like Reading should bid for city of culture. The city of culture designation, introduced by Andy Burnham in 2009, lasts one year and includes cultural events and hosting the Turner Prize.
Nandy, who represents Wigan, said she wants every town and city to know their contribution 'is seen and valued'. She added: 'Why shouldn't the next Oscar winner or Bafta winner come from Wigan or Barnsley or Bradford?'
