Congleton Sets Its Sights on UK Town of Culture 2028

Congleton Town Council has announced plans to submit an expression of interest to become the UK Town of Culture 2028.

This follows the launch of a new national competition by the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).

The town council, alongside Congleton Community Projects and Congleton Partnership, has met to discuss the opportunity and has agreed that Congleton should put itself forward for the prestigious title. The competition represents a significant opportunity for the town, with the winning location set to receive £3 million to deliver a major cultural programme in 2028. In addition, two shortlisted finalist towns in each category will each receive £250,000 to develop elements of their proposals.

Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Robert Brittain, welcomed the decision, saying:

“This is a hugely exciting opportunity for Congleton. Our town has a proud, independent spirit and a strong cultural heartbeat, shaped by our history, our people and our creativity. A bid for UK Town of Culture would allow us to celebrate who we are, support our communities and create a lasting legacy for future generations.”

A successful bid would be a truly town-wide endeavour, bringing together residents, businesses, artists, community organisations and partners to co-create a programme of events and activities that delivers long-term social, cultural and economic benefits.

Congleton has a distinctive story to tell. Known as Beartown, the town is recognised for its independent character and willingness to stand up for what is right. Its rich heritage of self-sufficiency and social action is reflected in historic figures such as John Bradshaw and Elizabeth Wolstenholme Elmy. This legacy is complemented by a vibrant contemporary cultural scene, including events such as Unplugged, the Congleton Food & Drink Festival, Pride, Jazz & Blues, and a wide range of cultural and community activity taking place throughout the year.

At this early stage, the town council is seeking expressions of interest from local organisations to indicate their support for the bid and/or their willingness to explore involvement as plans develop. There is no commitment required beyond this initial indication of interest.

An indicative timeline for the competition is as follows:

• Expression of Interest submitted: 31 March 2026
• Shortlisted towns announced: Spring 2026
• Full application period: Spring – Autumn 2026
• Panel visits: Autumn 2026
• Finalists and winner announced: Early 2027
• Delivery period: 2028

Organisations wishing to be involved are invited to select “Yes” on the expression of interest form:

https://form.jotform.com/260324362570350

Demonstrating strong local support will be a key part of the submission. Subject to interest, key stakeholders will be invited to attend a meeting towards the end of February (date to be confirmed) to help shape the outline programme and approach.

Congleton Town Council will act as the main point of contact for the bid and welcomes informal discussions or enquiries.

Contact Congleton Information Centre on:

01260 270 350 ext 1

or email:

info@congleton-tc.gov.uk

For more information on the competition visit:

First ever UK Town of Culture competition to restore pride in communities - GOV.UK