East Staffordshire Borough Council is inviting local businesses to help shape the town’s bid
Burton upon Trent is entering to be the first ever winner of the UK Town of Culture competition, which, if successful would see the town occupy a space on the national cultural map. With a solid background of brewing heritage, local talent, creative vigour, and community spirit, Burton serves as a worthy candidate for the title of UK Town of Culture.
The UK Town of Culture competition has derived from the success of the UK City of Culture, and it will celebrate British towns for their cultural accomplishments, community involvement, and local identity on a national scale. One town will be named UK Town of Culture 2028 and receive an award of £3 million to allow a year-long programme to enhance cultural activity further. This is while two runners-up will each be awarded £250,000 to contribute to making their boldest cultural goals a reality.
Burton’s cultural offering is ever-expanding and as a hive of activity, it strives to celebrate people, place, and progress, whether historical landmarks, grassroots community initiatives, lively town centre events, or budding creative talent. East Staffordshire Borough Council (ESBC) is working with local businesses, community groups, and organisations to put a bid together that highlights everything that makes Burton upon Trent truly unique.
The Town of Culture entry will also home in on Burton’s ambitious and committed approach toward regeneration, where it blends heritage, creativity, and community to reimagine and restore spaces for communities and future generations, resulting in a lasting cultural legacy like no other.
Cllr Paul Walker, Cabinet Member for Tourism and Cultural Development, said: “This entry is about the Council working in partnership with local people to celebrate Burton and everything that makes our town special. The bid will build upon the incredible work already happening, from our enhanced Washlands, to the ongoing success of the Sonic Boom Festival and the revitalisation of historic sites as part of the Old Brewery Quarter regeneration. Culture is at the heart of our community, and this is our chance to share that story with the rest of the country.”
ESBC is inviting local businesses to share their ideas and help shape Burton upon Trent’s entry. If you would like to get involved, please email marketing@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk.