Let's make Dudley Britain's first 'town of culture': MP urges town to bid for £3.5 million title
An MP has urged Dudley to lodge a bid to become Britain's first 'town of culture' after the Government announced a new competition.
Sonia Kumar, who represents the Dudley constituency, welcomed the launch of the new UK Town of Culture competition.
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She urged Dudley Council to promote the opportunity to showcase the town’s rich heritage, creativity and community pride on a national stage.
Dudley Council leader Councillor Patrick Harley said he intended to submit an application once he had studied the detail.
Announced by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, the new competition is aimed at small and medium-sized town’s and will award £3.5 million to the winning town to deliver a major cultural programme in summer 2028. Shortlisted towns will also receive £60,000 to help develop their final bids.
Miss Kumar said Dudley was well placed to make a strong case, with a history that has helped shape the national story, from the Black Country’s industrial heritage to its vibrant contemporary cultural scene.
"This is a huge opportunity for Dudley," she said.
"Our town has a powerful story to tell, one rooted in industry, resilience, creativity and community, and this competition offers the chance to share that story with the rest of the country.
“Winning, or even bidding for, Town of Culture status could bring real benefits to Dudley: investment, jobs, tourism and a renewed sense of local pride. I want to see Dudley putting itself forward with ambition and confidence, working with local artists, community groups, schools and cultural organisations to show what makes our town special.”
The UK Town of Culture competition will assess bids based on three key criteria: the unique story of the town, how culture will be made accessible to everyone, and how the programme will be delivered successfully. The winning town will host a summer-long programme celebrating local identity and creativity.
The announcement comes alongside the opening of expressions of interest for UK City of Culture 2029, which for the first time includes a confirmed £10 million cash prize for the winning place.
Miss Kumar added: “We know from places like Coventry, Hull and now Bradford that culture can be transformational. It brings people together, boosts local economies and leaves a lasting legacy. Dudley deserves that chance, and I will be encouraging local partners to explore a strong bid that puts our town firmly on the cultural map.”
Councillor Harley said: " I would fully support it. I will be looking at the detail before we submit a bid."
Applications for UK Town of Culture 2028 are expected to open in the coming weeks.
