‘We are ready for this challenge’: Northampton submits bold bid to become UK Town of Culture 2028
Cultural organisations and community partners joined forces to submit an Expression of Interest for Northampton to become the UK Town of Culture in 2028.
The bid, titled We Are Northampton, sets out a major year-long programme that would celebrate the town’s heritage, creativity and diverse communities – while helping to drive regeneration, skills and pride.
Developed with more than 30 cultural, community, faith, education and business partners, the proposal aims to bring new investment into the town and widen access to culture for residents of all ages.
The programme would build on the town’s historic strengths in making, performance, festivals and grassroots creativity, alongside new opportunities created by the regeneration of the town centre.
The We Are Northampton bid highlights the town’s identity as a place built by makers, storytellers and communities from many backgrounds.
It celebrates assets including the Cultural Quarter, Delapré Abbey, Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, Royal & Derngate, NN Contemporary Art, 78 Derngate, community groups and festivals.
The proposal sets out four programme themes:
- Making and Makers – celebrating Northampton’s global reputation in leathercraft, shoemaking, motorsport and contemporary creative sectors.
- New Town New Voices – showcasing migration stories, new writing, film and performance.
- Everyday Culture – bringing activity into parks, high streets and community settings across all wards.
- Living Heritage – connecting faith communities, sports, historic sites and local traditions.
The bid also places a strong focus on young people, who would be at the centre of the programme through a new Youth Cultural Board, creative apprenticeships, mentoring schemes and accessible events.
The programme is designed to support economic growth, increase footfall, unlock new careers in creative industries, and ensure more parts of the town can enjoy regular cultural activity. It would also strengthen community connections through volunteering, shared events and resident-led projects.
If Northampton is shortlisted, a £60,000 development grant will be rewarded to prepare a full programme plan.
Councillor Mark Arnull, leader of West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Northampton has a proud story and a creative spirit that runs through every part of our town.
“This bid is about shining a light on the people, places and traditions that make our wonderful town unique, and giving our communities new opportunities to take part, connect and thrive.
“Becoming the UK Town of Culture would help us bring fresh investment into the town, support our young people, boost local businesses and show the country what Northampton has to offer.
“We are ready for this challenge and excited for the amazing opportunities it would bring to people who truly deserve it.”
Mayor of Northampton Councillor Jane Birch added: “We’re excited to be part of Northampton’s bid to become the UK Town of Culture in 2028.
“Last year saw the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of Northampton and a celebration of sport when the Women’s Rugby World Cup came to town. These events brought communities and organisations together to deliver a remarkable cultural programme, showcasing the town’s passion and pride, while demonstrating our capacity for creativity and partnership working.
“Now we have an opportunity to build on that momentum, knowing that Northampton has the ambition, community backing and confidence needed to deliver a memorable Town of Culture programme.
“A successful bid would bring significant benefits. It’s a chance to put Northampton firmly on the map, celebrate our culture and heritage, and add a new chapter to our shared history.”
Shortlisted places will be invited to develop a full application later this year, and the winner of UK Town of Culture 2028 will be announced in 2027.