UK Town of Culture 2028:
“Our local communities are what makes South Shropshire such a wonderful place to live, work, and visit. They are where we trade, enjoy our free time, and come together with one another. Our local communities are also a major tourist attraction, with the beautiful market towns providing fantastic food and cultural entertainment.
From the thousands of responses to my Shop Local Survey, I have heard just how much people appreciate their local community. I hope everyone will support my campaign to ensure that South Shropshire features prominently in the new Town of Culture Competition that the government has recently announced.
The government has announced that applications will be open unti 31st March 2026 for Expressions of Interest - meaning there is 11 weeks to apply.
The strongest bids will progress to a shortlist, with each shortlisted town receiving £60,000 to help deliver their full bid for the competition.
Three finalists - one small, one medium, and one large town - will then be crowned UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive a £3 million prize.
Applications will be judged on three main criteria:
- Your Story: The Unique Story of The Town
- Culture for Everyone: How the Town will design a cultural programme for all
- Making It Happen: How the town will then deliver a successful programme
The competition is part of a package of support to boost pride in place by enabling towns to tell their unique story.
As part of his campaign to unleash rural prosperity, Stuart hopes to attract funding to deliver support for towns across South Shropshire.
Stuart's Community Support Finder details the latest support that is available for charitable organisations in both South Shropshire and beyond.
For more information on how to bid for the title, please go to: UK Town of Culture 2028 Expression of Interest
