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Dartford bids to be UK's first Town of Culture
18 May
Summary
- Dartford is vying to become the UK's inaugural Town of Culture.
- The winning town will receive £3 million for a six-month cultural program.
- The council is encouraging residents to share stories for the bid.
Dartford Borough Council has announced its intention to compete for the title of the UK's first Town of Culture in 2028. This new national competition, launched by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, aims to celebrate the cultural impact of towns.
The winning town will be awarded £3 million to stage a six-month cultural program. This initiative follows the successful UK City of Culture program. The bid emphasizes Dartford's rich cultural heritage, from its industrial past to its global artistic legacy.
The Dartford Town Centre Partnership will lead the bid, collaborating with the council and various partners. The competition also offers £250,000 to two finalists in different town size categories. Residents are invited to share their personal stories to be included in the bid, enriching its narrative.
Council leader Jeremy Kite expressed passion for the town's vibrant culture, stating it is present in businesses, schools, and public spaces, and lives within its people. The council highlights ongoing cultural offerings, including music heritage tributes and community events.
