Birkenhead has been shortlisted for a new £3m national award, the UK Town of Culture, beating hundreds of other applicants. The Wirral town is among 15 finalists selected from over 400 entries for the inaugural competition, which aims to replicate the success of the City of Culture award.
Shortlist and Categories
The shortlisted towns are split into three population-based categories: small towns (under 20,000), medium towns (20,000–75,000), and large towns (over 75,000). Birkenhead competes in the large town category alongside Basildon, Grimsby, and Rotherham. Each shortlisted town receives £60,000 to develop their full bids, which will be assessed by an independent judging panel.
Winner and Runners-Up
One finalist will be selected from each category, with the overall winner announced early next year. The winner will receive the £3m grant to deliver a cultural programme in 2028, while the other two category winners will each receive £250,000.
Unsuccessful Bids
Notable towns that missed the shortlist include Bootle, whose bid was backed by Liverpool FC legend Jamie Carragher, who described his hometown as the "best place in the world." Another unsuccessful bid came from New Brighton. Wirral Council leader Cllr Paula Basnett had earlier praised both Birkenhead and New Brighton's bids, saying: "Both Birkenhead and New Brighton bring their own distinct creativity and heritage, and these community led bids are an opportunity to shine a national spotlight on that brilliance."
Government Reaction
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy congratulated the shortlisted towns and said: "I want to say a massive congratulations to the fifteen shortlisted towns and I wish them luck in the next round of the competition. The fact that we received so many applications just goes to show how proud people are of their towns. When I launched this competition, I wanted to shine a light on our amazing towns all across the UK and the huge contribution they make to our national life. I am so glad that so many towns have applied and I hope each and every town, whether they have been shortlisted or not, is incredibly proud of the work they have done to champion their local community."
