A bid to secure a major national cultural title is gathering momentum as community leaders, artists and organisations rally behind plans to showcase a town’s heritage, creativity and civic pride.
Barnstaple Town Council has confirmed it is supporting a campaign for the town to be named UK Town of Culture 2028, working with local groups, creatives and organisations to develop a formal submission.
The competition, launched by the UK Government, is the first national scheme of its kind and is open to towns of all sizes. It aims to recognise places that can tell their own story, bring communities together and deliver an ambitious cultural vision.
Shortlisted towns will each receive £60,000 to help develop full bids. The overall winner will be awarded the UK Town of Culture 2028 title and a £3 million prize, while runners-up will receive £250,000 to deliver elements of their proposals.
Barnstaple Town Council said it would work alongside the local bid group and partners across the community to produce a submission celebrating the town’s creative strengths.
Members of Barnstaple’s creative community said: “Culture belongs to everyone, and each of us has a role in shaping what it becomes”.
The Town of Culture bid group added: “Barnstaple’s bid to be named the UK Town of Culture has already united people with a renewed sense of energy, enthusiasm and optimism – celebrating the strengths we share today and inspiring a collective vision for our cultural future.
“The local creative community has shown amazing support for this initiative and are keen to be involved in the process to achieve Town of Culture status for Barnstaple. We look forward to connecting with all communities as we #BigUpBarny”.
Mayor of Barnstaple, Cllr Janet Coates, said: “We are proud to be working with our community to deliver a bid for UK Town of Culture 2028.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Barnstaple’s rich heritage, creativity and community spirit.
“This bid is about bringing people together and celebrating everything our town has to offer, from our history and cultural events to the talent and passion within our community.
“We are excited to play our part in shaping this vision and creating a legacy for Barnstaple.”
Further information about the town’s bid and ways to get involved is available at www.bigupbarny.co.uk.
More details about the national competition can be found at www.gov.uk/government/news/first-ever-uk-town-of-culture-competition-to-restore-pride-in-communities.
