City of Culture 2029: two Yorkshire cities on Government longlist
Sheffield and Middlesbrough are two of nine places to be longlisted to become the UK’s next City of Culture in 2029.
The pair will be hoping to follow in Bradford and Hull’s footsteps, which both saw a huge boost in investment and tourism when showcasing the region’s fantastic arts scene.
The cities each get £60,000 from the Government to help with their bid, and will be competing against Blackpool, Inverness-Highland, Ipswich, Milton Keynes, Portsmouth, Swindon and Wrexham.
Coun Tom Hunt, Sheffield City Council leader, said: “We’re incredibly proud that Sheffield has been longlisted for UK City of Culture 2029.
“This city has always been powered by creativity – seen in our globally influential music, film, games and art.
“We don’t just put culture on a stage, we live it, make it and share it with the world. Grown from the ground up, it’s shaped by the people who call Sheffield home.
“Culture isn’t separate from how Sheffield grows, it’s part of how we build a stronger, more confident city.
“It brings people in, creates jobs, supports our independent businesses, and helps talent choose to stay and build their future here.
“This is a brilliant moment for our city and a chance to show the confidence, creativity and ambition that defines Sheffield today.”
Mayor of Middlesbrough Chris Cooke added: “Our bid takes Middlesbrough’s motto, ‘Erimus’, - which translates to ‘We Shall Be’ - literally.
“It brings together our history as an industrial powerhouse with our ambition to become the UK's most creative place.
“I am delighted that we've been longlisted for what would be a once in a generation opportunity to celebrate the creativity of our residents, artists and businesses and change how people view Middlesbrough.”
The City of Culture winner will be announced later in the year. At the same time, today’s announcement comes with two weeks to go to register interest in becoming the UK’s first ever Town of Culture.
Beverley was the latest Yorkshire town that is considering taking part alongside neighbours Pocklington, Driffield and Bridlington.
Barnsley, Halifax, Ilkley, Keighley, Richmond, Scarborough, Whitby and Knaresborough, are also attracted by the prospect of winning £3m to deliver a year-long arts and culture programme.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport said some 230 towns had expressed interest in becoming the Town of Culture in 2028.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “For far too long, opportunity has not been shared equally across the country.
“The UK City of Culture and new UK Town of Culture competitions recognise the enormous contributions made by communities all over the UK who are all part of the story of who we are as a nation.
“I look forward to seeing what the nine longlisted places have in store as they progress in the competition. I also urge any towns thinking about entering the UK Town of Culture competition to seize this opportunity and get involved.
“It’s a chance to show the country what makes them unique and shine a spotlight on their cultural offer, enriching the lives of local people.”