News / Town of Culture
MP backs Town of Culture bid
Claire Hazelgrove MP has backed a bid to make part of her constituency UK Town of Culture 2028.
Filton Town Council put itself forward for the competition, which promises the winner £3m to deliver a cultural programme, earlier this year.
Now Hazelgrove has written to the secretary of state for culture, media and sport, Lisa Nandy, to back the town.
“I’m delighted to see Filton putting itself forward,” she said. “Filton has an extraordinary story to tell – rooted in innovation, industry and ambition, from its rural origins to its globally significant contributions to aviation, aerospace and manufacturing, including Concorde, and more.”
“It’s a fantastic town with a proud history, strong communities and huge potential.”
Elm Park offers Filton its main green space – photo: Molly Pipe
Filton’s bid centres around three key areas: life (referring to its history, diversity and pride); lift (referring to its aerospace and engineering prowess); and learning (referring to its education and skills offer).
This is the UK’s first Town of Culture competition, and follows the success of City of Culture.
Towns are invited to showcase their culture and contribution to national life.
Nandy said: “There is so much for us to be proud of in the towns we’re from – from the rich, local history to unique festivals and celebrations.
“They have shaped our national story for decades. Now it’s time they take centre stage and showcase the unique stories they have to tell.”
The bid focuses on the themes of life, lift and learning – photo: Molly Pipe
Successful bids will deliver a cultural programme for locals to built community investment and pride, and expand access to the arts.
Three towns of different sizes will be selected as finalists by the government, awarding the winner £3m to deliver its programme and the title of UK Town of Culture 2028.
The two runners-up will receive £250,000 to deliver part of their proposals.
The shortlisted towns will be announced later in spring.
Main photo: Molly Pipe
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