Government Seeks First 'Town of Culture' to Champion Overlooked Communities

2 days ago7 min read

The government has launched a national competition to find the UK's inaugural 'Town of Culture', backed by a £3. 5 million prize, in a bid to spotlight communities that feel sidelined from the nation's cultural narrative.Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced the initiative, stating it directly addresses places that have been 'written out of the national story'. The new award is modelled on the successful UK City of Culture programme, which has previously boosted the profiles and economies of cities like Hull, Coventry, and the current holder, Bradford.The 'Town of Culture' title represents a strategic shift in focus from large metropolitan centres to smaller, often post-industrial, coastal, or market towns where the impact of such recognition could profoundly strengthen local community ties and civic pride. The £3.5 million in funding is intended to act as a catalyst for the winning town, enabling it to invest in local arts, host festivals, and build cultural infrastructure that benefits all residents. Beyond the economic uplift from increased tourism, the programme aims to nurture homegrown talent and reduce the need for local artists to relocate to major cities.The selection process will be closely watched to ensure it genuinely rewards towns with the greatest need for cultural investment and opportunity, rather than those with the most resources to submit an application. Ultimately, the search aims to foster a more inclusive and decentralised view of British culture, celebrating the vitality of its towns.

#lead focus news

#UK

#town of culture

#Lisa Nandy

#arts funding

#regional development

#cultural policy

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