Communities from across Kirklees are being urged to express an interest in becoming the UK’s first ever ‘Town of Culture’ in 2028.
The government has launched a nationwide invitation for small, medium and large towns to bid for Town of Culture status and celebrate local creativity, heritage and talent. The successful town stands to receive £3m to deliver a cultural programme in 2028 with two other finalists each receiving £250,000.
The Leader of Kirklees Council is now calling on local community groups to lead an ‘expression of interest’ to become part of the programme.
Kirklees Council Leader, Cllr Carole Pattison, said: “The programme is all about local groups taking the lead with their ideas and ambition to tell the story of their place. We’re asking groups to let the council know if they’re planning to make a submission as councils are expected to form part of the partnership for any successful bid and we’re keen to support where we can.
“Kirklees is bursting at the seams with local culture, heritage and talent. We’re proud of our amateur theatre companies, choirs and music collectives, dance groups, heritage and history societies. We love our reading circles, visual arts studios, craft and textile collectives, our youth creative hubs, festivals committees and our faith groups, celebrating cultural traditions. Now is the chance for those communities to show off their creativity and tell their story on the national stage.
“Our towns have a rich and diverse cultural landscape, from our grassroots community groups and volunteers to our artists, musicians, performers and heritage organisations. Culture here is not confined to one place or one art form. It’s woven into the everyday life of our towns and villages. Becoming a Town of Culture would give us a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the creativity that thrives across Kirklees.”
Expressions of interest must be submitted by 31 March, 2026 to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. Successful bids will need to clearly convey ideas, partnerships, and vision for how culture could be celebrated and shared across their town. A shortlist is expected to be announced in spring.
The council is asking local groups to get in touch with them if they plan to make an expression of interest. Groups can email: arts.creativity@kirklees.gov.uk to let the council know about their plans.
Newsome ward Green Party councillors believe Huddersfield should seize the opportunity and showcase what the town has to offer. Group Leader, Cllr Andrew Cooper, said previously: “Huddersfield has a vibrant cultural scene driven by committed individuals and communities that enrich the lives of thousands in our town. By winning the UK Town of Culture we don’t just access government funding but we could help bring a positive vibe that we so desperately need in Huddersfield.”
