Town enters race to be named Town of Culture 2028

A town council has announced it will bid to become the UK Town of Culture for 2028.

Kettering, in Northamptonshire, has officially submitted an expression of interest for the competition, with proposals developed through consultation with residents, schools and community organisations.

The winner will be given £3m to deliver a cultural programme in 2028, and two other finalists will each receive £250,000.

If the bid is successful, the council said it could deliver a programme of events including revitalised heritage buildings, a roaming Arts Bus, new youth and skills pathways, and an expanded year‑round festival offer.

The submission draws on the town's historical links to innovation, including the development of Wicksteed Park, one of the UK's first public leisure parks, and contributions to design and research.

Kettering Town Council's town clerk Emma Dezelu said the competition was an opportunity to showcase the town's talent.

"We are aiming high, because Kettering always has," she said.

The shortlist is due to be announced in the coming months.

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