Redditch announces bid to be first UK Town of Culture
The winning town will receive a £3 million pound investment from the government to deliver a year long cultural programme
Redditch has announced it's bid to become the UK's first town of culture.
The UK Town of Culture is a new initiative launched by the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport to celebrate towns across the nation.
It aims to drive economic and social regeneration and create long-lasting cultural legacies.
Redditch Borough Council said the bid reflects Redditch's significant cultural role in North Worcestershire and beyond, with the decision based on discussions between the Cultural Compact for North East Worcestershire and council representatives.
The council added that "collaboration" will sit at the heart of the bid and community groups, cultural organisations, education providers, local businesses, and regional stakeholders will work together on its development.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Sharon Harvey, said: “Redditch has always been a town with heart.
“Our Town of Culture bid will shine a national spotlight on our incredible town. Redditch is full of vibrant, diverse and creative communities and beautiful parks and open spaces.
“This is our moment to shout from the rooftops how proud we are of our town and I am delighted at the support and enthusiasm we have seem from our partners and our MP Chris Bloore.”
Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Juliet Barker Smith, said: “This isn’t just a cultural programme, it’s a movement.
“We want every resident to see themselves in the stories we tell and help shape the future of our town. Redditch has so much to offer, and I am so excited we have another opportunity to show the world just how great we are.”
Towns have until the end of the month to submit their interest, with successful towns finding out if they have been shortlisted to submit a full bid just before the Summer.
If Redditch is awarded the title, it would be accompanied by £3 million grant from the government to host a year long festival of culture.