Council backs bold bids for UK’s first Town of Culture crown

The three towns have joined applicants from across the country in a bid for the UK Town of Culture 2028 title – a new national competition which will see one winning town awarded £3 million, with two further finalists each receiving £250,000 to bring their cultural plans to life.

If successful, the accolade would further cement Dudley borough’s growing reputation as a leading cultural destination, showcasing its heritage, creativity and community pride on a national and international stage.

Each bidding town brings its own distinctive strengths, histories, and voices. Together, they have developed ambitious, community‑led proposals that tell the powerful and evolving cultural story of the borough.

Dudley Town, Brierley Hill, and Stourbridge reflect the full character of the borough – combining rich industrial roots, creative energy, proud communities and a strong cultural identity.

From Dudley Town’s historic landmarks and major regeneration to Brierley Hill’s proud industrial heritage and emerging community‑driven creative scene, and Stourbridge’s world‑renowned glassmaking tradition and independent arts community, each town contributes a vital chapter to a wider narrative shaped by industry, creativity and resilience.

This unique combination makes Dudley borough stand out nationally – with three towns united in ambition, all competing to become the UK’s first Town of Culture.

The UK Town of Culture programme, launched by central government and inspired by the success of the UK City of Culture, aims to showcase original storytelling and deliver empowering, inclusive, and accessible cultural programmes.

While the competition will ultimately crown a single winner, the bids from Dudley borough demonstrate the scale of local ambition – a place proud of its heritage and communities, and committed to championing culture, inclusion, and innovation.

Applications are judged against three key criteria: the town’s unique story, the quality and inclusivity of its proposed cultural programme, and the town’s ability to deliver it successfully.

Applications closed on Tuesday 31 March. An expert judging panel, chaired by Sir Phil Redmond, will review submissions, with a shortlist expected in spring 2026 and the national winner announced in early 2027.

Balvinder Heran, Chief Executive of Dudley Council, said:

“We are excited and fully supportive of the community‑led bids from Dudley, Brierley Hill and Stourbridge to become the UK’s very first Town of Culture, and we wish them every success with their submissions. These bids are about far more than individual places. They are bold statements of our diversity, creativity, and ambition as a borough.  What is particularly striking is not just the differences between Dudley Town, Brierley Hill and Stourbridge, but how powerfully they complement one another – each telling a distinct chapter of our shared cultural story. 

"This initiative offers a unique opportunity to shine a national spotlight on the rich cultural heritage we are fortunate to have right here on our doorstep. It would be a tremendous honour for one of our towns to receive this title. Beyond the investment and increased cultural activity, it would bring the recognition that Dudley borough truly deserves.”

For further information about UK Town of Culture 2028, visit: First ever UK Town of Culture.