Birkenhead has been shortlisted for the first-ever UK Town of Culture award, competing against hundreds of towns for a £3m government grant. The winner, expected to be announced early next year, will deliver a cultural programme in 2028.
Local Leaders Hail National Profile Boost
Councillor Pat Cleary emphasised that while the £3m funding is significant, "it's the national profile boost that would possibly be even more important." He added, "It would put Birkenhead on the map. Given its history and proximity to Liverpool, this town punches below its weight. This is an amazing place, but it's been hammered by deindustrialisation. It has massive potential."
Councillor Ewan Tomeny noted that Birkenhead is experiencing regeneration, with more businesses opening and young professionals moving in. "The place is becoming more vibrant but it's also got the strong history and identity," he said. "It would be nice for people to have something to feel proud about again. For a long time it's felt like things are only going in one direction here, but it's now turning a corner."
Comparisons to Liverpool's 2008 Success
Both councillors and local cultural leaders drew parallels to Liverpool's year as European Capital of Culture in 2008. Councillor Cleary said, "Everyone acknowledges it was a game changer for the city." Craig Pennington, CEO of Future Yard music venue, which convened the bid, said winning would be "completely transformational" for Birkenhead. He hopes for a similar "change of perspective" as seen across the Mersey.
Community-Driven Bid
The bid was developed by the Birkenhead Culture Partnership using a "bottom up" approach, according to Pennington. Make CIC co-founders Liam Kelly and Kirsten Little, who run an arts studio in the town, expressed optimism. Kelly said winning "would give such an opportunity to overturn the stigma here. But we'd want the celebrations to take place all across the town, not just in the centre." Little noted that 2028 would be a fitting 20th anniversary to Liverpool's 2008 celebrations.
Regional Support
Birkenhead is the only Merseyside town on the 15-town shortlist. Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram celebrated the inclusion, stating: "Birkenhead has always had a story worth telling. From its proud maritime heritage and rich cultural history to the creativity, talent and community spirit that you see in the town today, it has helped shape not just the Liverpool City Region, but the country too. Being shortlisted for the first UK Town of Culture is fantastic recognition of all of that."
