The competition, announced earlier this year, invites towns across the UK to showcase their unique cultural story and develop ambitious programmes that celebrate local heritage, creativity and communities. The winning town will receive funding to deliver a major cultural programme in 2028 designed to boost civic pride, attract visitors and provide groups the opportunity to participate in cultural activities who at the moment have limited if any interaction with culture.
Loughborough’s bid is currently at the Expression of Interest stage – the first step in the national process – and is led by the University, Charnwood Borough Council and other organisations who work directly with communities. Should the town be invited to progress to the next phase, a full programme of consultation and engagement with residents, community groups and local organisations will take place to shape the proposal.
The bid is being developed through a partnership that includes the council, cultural groups, education providers and community organisations, working together to highlight the creativity and diversity that defines Loughborough.
The bid will also celebrate Loughborough’s rich heritage, including the last working bellfoundry in the UK – which Since 1859, has produced over 25,000 bells that chime from towers in over 100 countries around the world – and the historic Great Central Railway. Alongside this heritage sits a vibrant and diverse community, including long-established South Asian communities, newer residents from across Europe and the town’s student population.
The UK Town of Culture competition builds on the success of the UK City of Culture programme, which has brought major cultural investment and national attention to places such as Bradford and Coventry. The first UK Town of Culture will be announced following a national selection process, with the winning town delivering its programme in 2028.