BCP Council bids to become UK Town of Culture

Wimborne Minster is Dorset’s Town of Culture 2026, and now Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council has launched a bid for the three towns to become the first ever UK Town of Culture 2028.
The winning area will receive £3 million to deliver a year-long cultural programme, with two runners-up receiving £250,000 each to support cultural activity.

The council says it will work closely with local partners and organisations to show how creativity and collaboration flow across the three towns.

Cllr Andy Martin, portfolio holder for Culture, Communications and Customer Services, said: “The arts and culture play a vital role in supporting people’s health and wellbeing, helping us feel more connected, confident and able to thrive.

“Culture is the thread that links our three towns, and as someone proud to call this place home, I know just how much our communities have to offer. This is an amazing opportunity to highlight the work we already do together, open doors for new audiences and make creativity easier for everyone to access – building something that lasts well beyond 2028.”