Bury has not been shortlisted for the UK’s first Town of Culture competition after submitting its bid earlier this year.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has announced the 15 towns that will progress to the next stage of the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition, with Bury not among those selected.
The borough submitted its expression of interest in April, highlighting its arts scene, heritage, and investment in cultural facilities as part of its bid.
The competition, launched by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, aims to recognise and celebrate the cultural strengths of towns across the UK.
An expert panel reviewed all applications before selecting the shortlist.
The shortlisted towns are Ilfracombe, Isle of Bute, Lerwick, Sandown, Strabane, Stockton Town Centre Ward, Corby, Great Yarmouth, Leith, Pontypridd, Port Talbot, Basildon, Birkenhead, Grimsby and Rotherham.
Each shortlisted town will receive £60,000 to prepare a full application for the next stage of the competition.
The successful town will be announced in early 2027 and will receive up to £3 million to deliver a year long cultural programme during 2028.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said,
“I want to say a massive congratulations to the fifteen shortlisted towns and I wish them luck in the next round of the competition.
“The fact that we received so many applications just goes to show how proud people are of their towns. When I launched this competition, I wanted to shine a light on our amazing towns all across the UK and the huge contribution they make to our national life.
“I am so glad that so many towns have applied and I hope each and every town, whether they have been shortlisted or not, is incredibly proud of the work they have done to champion their local community.”
A spokesperson for Bury Council said,
“We’re naturally disappointed that Bury has not been shortlisted for the UK Town of Culture 2028.
This was a strong bid that showcased the borough’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant creative sector and ambitious vision for the future.
While this is not the outcome we had hoped for, the process has highlighted the passion, talent and community spirit that make Bury such a special place.
We remain committed to celebrating and investing in culture across the borough and thank everyone who supported the bid.
Bury has a proud track record of cultural success, having previously been awarded Greater Manchester Town of Culture, and we will continue to explore future opportunities to build on that legacy.”
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