‘A fantastic chance’: Telford council leader backs UK Town of Culture bid
Telford & Wrekin Council’s Labour leader gave it his backing
A council leader has given his full backing to Telford’s bid to become the first UK Town of Culture.
With the deadline being today (31st March) for expressions of interest to be lodged for the prestigious new title, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Labour leader gave it his backing.
Councillor Lee Carter (Arleston & College) confirmed at a meeting of the ruling cabinet that an expression of interest will be lodged.
Being crowned UK Town of Culture in 2028 would give the area a double celebration as in 1968 the name Telford was adopted as the name of the new town.
“We think we’ve got a really good chance,” Councillor Carter told last Thursday’s meeting (March 26).
“There are six other towns in Shropshire that are bidding for it so we don’t want to be left out in that respect.
“Certainly given our rich history and heritage and culture here I think we’ve got a fantastic chance.”
The council is already working on a culture strategy.
And if the bid gets through to the shortlisting stage the Southwater One-based authority is set to receive £60,000 to help it prepare a full submission.
The UK Town of Culture strategy was launched by culture secretary Lisa Nandy earlier this year follows on from the UK City of Culture competition.
One eventual winner will receive £3 million and the possibility of a significant economic booster.
Two other finalists are set to get £250,000 each to deliver a programme of cultural activity in 2028.
If Telford is shortlisted in Spring 2026 it will be visited by a panel for detailed discussions in advance of a winners announcement in early 2027.