Work is underway to develop Shrewsbury’s submission for the first ever UK Town of Culture programme which will be awarded for 2028, with local cultural leaders, creatives and partners coming together to help shape the town’s ambitions. 

On Wednesday 11 February, a focus group met at Shrewsbury Town Council’s offices on St John’s Hill to explore ideas, themes and opportunities that could inform Shrewsbury’s application. The session brought together voices from across the town’s cultural, community and creative sectors. 

Among those attending was Maggie Love, Creative Arts Consultant and Local Historian representing Shrewsbury Heritage, which was established in 2004. She said: 
“Shrewsbury attracts creativity and has history running through its veins. From dance and theatre to music, heritage and community projects, this town has always found ways to bring people together through culture. A UK Town of Culture bid is a chance to tell our story with confidence, celebrate what we already do so well, and inspire people of all ages to get involved.” 

The UK Town of Culture bid process focuses on three key areas: the story of the town, how a cultural programme would be designed, and how that programme would ultimately be delivered to create long-lasting impact for residents, communities and visitors. Discussions at the focus group centred on how Shrewsbury’s rich heritage, strong grassroots creativity and community-led activity could be brought together into a compelling and authentic narrative. 

The bid will champion the great cultural offer that already exists in Shrewsbury, including established events and initiatives such as the Shrewsbury Arts Trail and Loop Fest, alongside the town’s thriving independent venues, festivals and creative organisations. 

If Shrewsbury is successful at the interim application stage, the town would be awarded £60,000 to support the development of a full UK Town of Culture bid. 

The Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Alex Wagner, said: 
“We are absolutely delighted to be progressing with a bid for UK Town of Culture 2028. Shrewsbury has such a strong cultural identity and a community that truly values creativity. This bid is an opportunity to celebrate what makes our town special and to bring partners together with a shared sense of ambition for our future.” 

Helen Ball, Town Clerk at Shrewsbury Town Council, said: 
“Shrewsbury has a strong history of excellence in culture, place-making and community leadership. The town has received many regional and national awards over the years, including the Academy of Urbanism ‘Great Town’ Award. Exploring a UK Town of Culture bid reflects our ambition to build on that success and continue investing in Shrewsbury’s future.” 

Rob Wilson, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transport & Economic Growth, added: 
“Shrewsbury plays a vital role in the economic and cultural life of Shropshire. Supporting this bid is about recognising the town’s strengths and creating new opportunities for growth, investment and tourism. A successful UK Town of Culture programme would bring real benefits for local businesses, residents and visitors alike, and we are pleased to support Shrewsbury’s bid, as well as others from across Shropshire.” 

Shrewsbury Town Council is leading the project, working closely with Shrewsbury BID, My Shrewsbury, Shropshire Festivals, and a range of other organisations from across the town’s cultural, business and community sectors. The collaborative approach aims to ensure the bid reflects Shrewsbury’s diversity, creativity and shared ambitions. 

The interim application must be submitted by 31 March, with further engagement and partnership activity taking place before the submission is finalised. 

Press release issued by Shrewsbury Town Council