Town of Culture 2028 Shortlisting Decision

Stratford-upon-Avon Looks Ahead Following UK Town of Culture 2028 Shortlisting Decision

Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council has expressed its disappointment after learning that the town has not been shortlisted in the UK Town of Culture 2028 competition.

With an impressive 398 applications submitted from across the country and only 15 places available on the shortlist, the competition was exceptionally competitive.

Whilst naturally disappointed with the outcome, the Town Council remains positive about the significant work undertaken through the bid process and sees it as an important milestone rather than the end of the journey.

Caroline Nash, Town Clerk/Chief Officer of Stratford-upon-Avon, said:

Although we are naturally disappointed not to have been shortlisted, we are immensely proud of the collaborative effort that went into our application. The process has strengthened partnerships across the town and reinforced our shared ambition to celebrate and develop Stratford-upon-Avon’s rich cultural heritage and thriving creative sector. We now look forward to building on that momentum through the delivery of the Town’s Arts and Culture Strategy, which sets out a long-term vision to strengthen the town’s cultural offer, support local artists and organisations, encourage greater community participation to further enhance Stratford-upon-Avon’s reputation.

The Town Council would like to extend its sincere thanks to its partners, Stratford BID, Stratford-on-Avon District Council, and the many community organisations, cultural groups, businesses and individuals who contributed their time, ideas and enthusiasm in supporting the bid.